Public servants retain positions

In what became one of the most anticipated elections of all-time, there were no surprises in some of the local elections.

Isabella County voters decided on who would spend the next four years running various posts in county public service positions.

After nearly two-thirds of the precincts reported, it appears that a couple of incumbent candidates running with the Republican Party would retain their positions.

The race for clerk was a tight one with R-Joyce Swan receiving 52 percent of the vote with 62 percent reporting.

“I haven’t won anything yet,” Swan said of the election, clearly holding back celebrations until all the votes are tabulated.

Swan held on to defeat D-Andrew Thibodeau by a five percent margin.

In the race for register of deeds, R-Sharon Brown is heading for a fourth term. Brown picked up 56 percent of the final vote to defeat Democratic candidate Joel Welty.

“I would get to continue what I started and finish and see it through to the end,” said Brown of the various projects she has been working on while in office.

The race for treasurer also had a red finish with Republican candidate Steven Pickens winning 54 pecent of the vote to the 46 percent for D-Brian Dupuis.

“I hate politics, but I do love my job,” said Pickens. “We’ve come a long way in the treasurer’s office.”

Pickens has now served Isabella County for 18 years. With this election nearly over, he appears to have four more years to go.

“The day I feel I can’t help the people, I’ll leave,” he said. “They won’t even have to vote me out then.”

With this election nearly in the books, history has been made. The day’s events left some of the candidates stunned.

“It’s close, nail-biting,” said Brown. “I’m amazed by the outcome.”

Pickens is just happy to see some of his colleagues retaining their spots.

“Party doesn’t mean squat to me,” said Pickens. “I’m happy for the people. Joyce and Sharon are good people.

“We’re happy to serve the people. That’s first and foremost.”