Spencer, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) — Spencer’s new Ward 4 councilman was sworn into office yesterday. Election results are not official until they are canvassed by the Clay County Board of Supervisors. During their regular meeting Tuesday morning the board certified the results of last week’s special election. Jim Vermeer received 187 votes, and Duane Bates – who had been appointed to the position by the city council – got 178.
The cost of the special election had been estimated at up to 7 thousand dollars, but yesterday Deputy Elections Commissioner Brandy Van Otterloo said it was closer to three thousand. Much of that is mandatory classes for poll workers before every election.

The second special election for city council in Spencer will be held Tuesday April 28th to fill a vacancy in the 5th Ward. The only candidate on the ballot is Julie Beehler.