PORTSMOUTH — A recount of ballots cast in the Portsmouth City Council election confirmed the outcome of the race, meaning two council incumbents were voted off and three new faces will join in January.
Among a field of 11 candidates, political newcomers Yolanda C. “Edmonds” Thomas, Kathryn “Kitty” Bryant and Bill Dodson Jr. were successful in securing three at-large open seats on City Council, ousting incumbents Mark Whitaker and De’Andre Barnes.
Barnes finished in fourth place just 21 votes shy of Dodson, putting him within the 1% threshold that allows for a recount. Last month, Barnes requested the recount, which was held Tuesday in Portsmouth Circuit Court. Following the recount, Dodson remained the winner. The final tally put Dodson ahead of Barnes by 33 votes.
New council members will be take their oaths of office this week. In an emailed statement, Dodson said he’s excited the election has been finalized.
“We believe that we have a progressive council, ready to tackle the ills of the city, including organization/vision and direction, crime, economic development, racial disparity, school advancement, and other issues. Our number one issue is crime,” he said. “It will take years to fix, but at last the council bickering is over and we can start the healing.”