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Write-in secures spot on city council
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Marilyn Kubly-Schmid of Monroe turns in her ballot after voting in the spring election Tuesday at the westside fire station. Kubly-Schmid was also helping voters sign in for the election. "It's great to give back to the community and seeing friends and neighbors," she said. "This election gives people the chance to express their preference and give their say on what they want to see changed." (Times photo: Marissa Weiher)

Monroe Common Council Votes

(Five open seats.)



Jeffrey Newcomer: 790

Brooke Bauman: 736

Chris Beer: 722

Ron Marsh: 650

Write-ins: 273



Total votes: 3,171

MONROE - Although no one registered as a write-in candidate for the Monroe Common Council, Tuesday's election brokered a new alderman for the fifth open seat, if native Rob Schilt is willing to fill it.

Alderman Reid Stangel did not seek re-election in Tuesday's election. Despite no one seeking the spot initially, a number of people stepped forward as write-in candidates within days of the election.

A graduate of Monroe High School, Schilt is a former teacher in the district who continues to help the football team as a coach. A post by Schilt on Facebook less than 24 hours before the election began garnered 46 shares. In it, he announced his intent to serve on the council.

"I have decided to run for Monroe City Council and would greatly appreciate your support by writing my name in for a seat when you head out to vote tomorrow," he wrote.

The campaign by word of mouth was successful. He received 66 votes, the most of any write-in candidate. Schilt still has to formally accept or decline the elected position.

Schilt was followed closely by American Legion Auxiliary Post 84 president Donna Douglas, who received 55 votes. Douglas also serves as executive director of the National Historic Cheesemaking Center.

Thurston Hanson, who served as Ward 7 councilman from 2008 to 2012 until he was defeated in an election against now Mayor Louis Armstrong, received 34 votes. Hanson had been advocating as a write-in candidate as well, displaying a large sign in the rear window of a vehicle parked down the street from the westside fire station where voting was taking place throughout the day.

Incumbents on the council received the most votes. Jeff Newcomer had the most, with 790 votes cast in his favor. Brooke Bauman received 736. Chris Beer had 722 votes, and Ron Marsh, who was appointed after the 2016 spring election, received 650 votes.