City Mayor Race Remains Undecided

The race for mayor of Ogdensburg remains undecided after all of the precincts reported in Tuesday night.

Incumbent Republican William D. Nelson is clinging to a nine vote lead over independent challenger Jack F. McGrath.

Mr. Nelson, who received 1,236 votes to Mr. McGrath's 1,227, sounded unperturbed when the results came in.

"It is nine votes," said Mr. Nelson. "I worked the absentee ballots, and we will see when everything comes in."

Mr. McGrath was not deterred by being narrowly behind on election night.

"It is not over until the fat lady sings," said Mr. McGrath. "There are 111 absentee ballots out there and I sent out a letter to every one of them asking them to vote."

Mr. McGrath said he was pleased with the outcome.

The St. Lawrence County Board of Elections reports that out of 156 ballots issued, they had received 111 back.

Council candidate Nicholas B. Friot commented on the close results in the mayoral race.

"I think that we really won't know what direction we're really going to head in until the mayor's race is finished," said Mr. Friot. "It shows you how split the city is in the direction they wanted to run."

The top vote getter among council candidates, Wayne L. Ashley, said regardless of who ends up winning the mayoral race, he will support and work with the victor.

"It is very close, we're going to have to see what happens," said Mr. Ashley. "I am willing to work with whichever individual happens to get the voter's confidence."

Jennifer Stevenson, the lone Democratic winner among City Council candidates, said the race was too close for comfort.

"It is not going to be decided tonight, there are still a number of ballots to be counted," she said.

The absentee ballot results will be reported in 7 days.