Democrat Rebecca Wyhof Salmon was elected the next mayor of Sanford Tuesday, winning more than 95 percent of the vote in an uncontested race.
There were 102 write in votes against Salmon in the mayoral contest. Salmon is currently the Council’s Ward 5 representative, meaning the council will need to appoint someone to fill her unexpired term. She was first elected to the Sanford City Council in 2011.
Meanwhile, Democrats Linda Rhodes and Mark Akinosho won their respective races by strong margins – Rhodes defeating Republican Richard Porter with 63-plus plus percent of the vote (1,101 to 630) for the at large seat being vacated by Democrat Chas Post and Akinosho topping Republican Blaine Sutton for the west Sanford based Ward 1 seat being vacated by Democrat Sam Gaskins with 60-plus percent of the vote (439 to 279).
Meanwhile, Ward 3 Councilman J.D. Williams, also a Democrat, won 126 votes in an uncontested race (there were two write in votes).
Following the release of the vote totals, Salmon sent the following statement to The Rant.
I am humbled and excited that you have put your trust in me to serve as your next Mayor. Sanford is a truly remarkable city – brimming with big ideas, a heart for service, entrepreneurial spirit, deep roots and boundless potential. We have built a strong foundation and I am honored to be part of writing the next chapter of Sanford’s story.We will continue an emphasis on smart and sustainable growth, sound infrastructure, attracting great jobs, promoting a vibrant downtown, and ensuring our community retains the unique character and sense of place that we all love.Building a community is a team effort and I look forward to working with the City Council and our strategic partners as we chart the future for our dynamic city.As Mayor, my focus will remain on what is important to you and your families. Let’s work together and continue building a community that empowers and encourages everyone to contribute to making Sanford a great place to live, work, and play. I will work my hardest every day to continue building relationships, supporting our employees, promoting our community, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.Thank you so much for your support during this campaign and your optimism and love for our community (Please continue to keep sharing your amazing ideas!). I have been blessed by the support of my incredible family and the help of so many volunteers and friends along the way. I owe each of you a deep debt of gratitude. It’s a great time to live in Sanford and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve.
The Rant will add statements from the other candidates if and when they are received.
