The next mayor of Dacono could be named today, nearly a month after voters cast their ballots for the top job in the Weld County community of 3,700.
Incumbent Wade Carlson and challenger Larry Johnston emerged from the Nov. 7 election tied at 366 votes apiece. A count of the three outstanding provisional ballots gave Carlson a one-vote lead, 368-367.
By law, that forced a recount, which begins today at the Weld County Clerk and Recorder’s office in Greeley.
The recount is supposed to be done by Dec. 7, but election officials say the results should be announced by late today.
“We can finally have closure,” said Rudy Santos, Weld County elections manager.
But if there was a miscount and the race is once again tied, the mayoral post could come down to a game of chance, like a flip of the coin or by drawing straws.
A race this close and convoluted is a rarity in Dacono, which must also pay for the cost of recount. Right now that looks like about $6,000, said City Clerk Valerie Elliott-Lucero.
Johnston said Monday he’s convinced the current vote total will stand after the recount. “I’m pretty sure the count will be final,” Johnston said. “This should be the end of it.”
Carlson said the whole issue should be decided, once again, by the voters.
“There is too much at stake here, and the people should decide,” he said.
But both state law and the town charter stipulates a recount must decide who is mayor.
“I just think the people should have the final say,” said Carlson. “This is ridiculous.”
Staff writer Monte Whaley can be reached at 720-929-0907 or mwhaley@denverpost.com.
