Incumbents win Delavan mayor, alderman races
DELAVAN — Incumbents dominated the races for mayor and alderman Tuesday.
Mel Nieuwenhuis defeated Alderman Ellen Reddy to secure his fourth term as mayor.
“I am very relieved that it’s over with,” he said. “I am physically and mentally drained.”
Nieuwenhuis said he was disappointed by the accusations his opponent made as the campaign came to a close, but it’s clear the voters “don’t approve of those kinds of tactics.”
He said his first goal is to bring together the currently “split” city council.
“I’m tired of the showboating and pontificating on the camera,” Nieuwenhuis said. “Let’s work in a respectful manner.”
In the 1st District, Alderman John K. Finley defeated former alderman Donald L. Edmunds.
In the 2nd District, Alderman David G. Kilkenny defeated perennial candidate Samuel H. Riggs III.
Kilkenny said he’s pleased voters supported his role as a “watchdog” on the city council.
“I indicated three years ago that I would scrutinize developers agreements and make sure they’re fair and balanced,” Kilkenny said. “I renewed that pledge again this year, and the voters want me to fulfill that role.”
He said as the city moves forward, it needs to do some long-range financial planning and set priorities for spending to make sure the important things are accomplished first.
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