Culwell, Hessler & Reeves Win In Columbia County

DAYTON - With only 510 votes remaining uncounted

in Columbia County by Tuesday night, showing a high 80 percent voter turn out, some candidates could declare sure wins while others

were hopeful but reserved.

In the heated races for county prosecutor and county

sheriff, only the bid for sheriff produced definitive results by Election Night.

Incumbent Walt Hessler, with 63.57 percent of votes, defeated Mark Franklin by 562 votes, a victory that cannot be denied.

Waiting inside the Columbia County courthouse to hear the unofficial count Tuesday night, Hessler displayed his usual mild-mannered

attitude toward the situation. When the preliminary ballot was released, the sheriff smiled, accepted warm hugs, handshakes and congratulations from about a dozen supporters at the courthouse, and then quietly withdrew. No speeches. No grand theatrics.

County Prosecuting Attorney Rea Culwell, however, was thrilled to receive her pleasant surprise. Despite being defeated by opponent Randy Lewis in the August primaries (another close race - Lewis won by just 73 votes), Culwell came out ahead by 136 votes Tuesday.

"I am very happy," she said in a phone interview Tuesday night."I'm looking forward to four more years. It was a tough race."

Culwell awaited news of the unofficial count at home with her husband, but after the results were released, friends and supporters

stopped by and opened a bottle of champagne.

In the background could be heard excited chatter and a friend, who leaned close to the phone to chant, "You won! You won!"

Despite the enthusiasm, however, Lewis still has a chance at winning unless he concedes the race. With just 53.15 percent of the votes, the final count on Nov. 23 could show a swing in the other direction.

In other general election news, Columbia County Commissioner Chuck Reeves is ahead of Charles Amerein by 336 votes.