Despite close results during a preliminary ballot count on election night (Nov. 7), Larry Curfman now seems likely to hold his fire district 1 seat for another term.

The Fire District 1 race had seen an election night flare up with incumbent Larry Curfman nearly tied with challenger Clarence (Buck) Graham. The two were separated by a mere four votes as of the preliminary count on election night.

A second ballot count on Nov. 9 saw Curfman pull ahead significantly. Curfman has earned 236 votes (more than 54 percent) and Graham earned 197 votes (45.5 percent).

Fire District 1 serves the Oakville area. The district made headlines in 2015 when it put a Christian message (a Bible verse) on its reader board during the holiday season leading critics to complain about a potential violation of the separation of church and state.

Other fire districts

For Fire District 5 the margin of separation is not as widespread as it is in Oakville.

Eric L. Patton has 486 votes, while Dave Hauge has 441 votes. While that’s only a separation of 45 votes, Patton likely will win the race. He has held the lead since a prelimary count on election night (Nov. 7).

Fire District 5 serves the rural Elma area.

Fire District 2 candidate Adam Bigby was uncontested in his bid for office.

Another ballot count was scheduled for Nov. 14. The Vidette went to press before the count results were available. The election will be certified on Nov. 28.