Whaley, Russell Win Citizens Gas
Election
The largest turnout in district history on Saturday ended in the election of two new members on the Citizens Gas Utility District Board of Commissioners. Larry Whaley outpolled a field of seven candidates vying for a five-year term on the gas board, while Roger Russell won his bid for a two year seat. A total of 1221 people voted Saturday, far outpacing the estimated average of around 500 voters per election; however, unlike most years, two seats were up for election.
Whaley received a total of 337 votes in Saturday’s election, outpacing his nearest challenger, Tony Younce, who received 279. Whaley will assume the seat vacated by long-time Commissioner Hubert Duncan, who chose not to run for re-election. Bradley Kidd finished third on Saturday, garnering 166 votes, while James Smith finished fourth with 139. Former utility district employee Carmer Phillips and local attorney Leif Jeffers tied for fifth, both receiving 108 votes. Jimmy Delk rounded out the field, receiving 58 votes.
Roger Russell was successful in his bid for the vacant two-year seat on the board. Russell garnered 349 votes, outpolling David Marlar, who finished second with 257. Larry Hord finished third with 245 votes, while Virgil David Cecil ended up fourth in the race with 198. Windle Dobbs rounded out the field, earning 119 votes. Russell will assume the vacant seat on the board and fill the unexpired term of former Commissioner Paul Bilbrey, who resigned last September.