West River Eagle

Dupree election sees new mayor and school board member



Voters turned out to the elections for the City of Dupree and Dupree School Board on June 9. There were five polling places for the School Board election with Donald Farlee and Mandi Smith running for an open seat. In the end, Smith garnered 156 votes to Farlee’s 116 votes.

Smith, a self-described “native of the community”, grew up south of Lantry and currently resides near the area on a ranch with her husband and children. Her father served on the school board for 21 years, a commitment that Smith says inspired her to run.

“I know that being on the board can be challenging but I felt a desire to try to make a positive impact. Children as so important and I have a vested interest to make a positive impact for their future,” Smith said

In the race for Dupree City Mayor was incumbent Jim Veit and Ward III alderman Sam Owen. The contest was close with Owen receiving 49 votes, besting Veit’s 47 votes. According to City meeting minutes (see page B9), one ballot was recorded as spoiled. Of the 97 ballots cast, 17 were absentee ballots.

Mayor-elect Sam Owen will be sworn in during the July 6 city meeting after Old Business is taken care of by Veit. The seat vacated by Owen may be filled at the meeting by an appointee, stated Owen on Monday.

Owen has served on city council for over five years and said it was his first time running for mayor, although he “has been asked to do so in the past.”

A resident of Dupree for over 20 years, Owen said he is proud and excited to represent the town his loves.

“Dupree is a little town. It is a good town, it’s quiet, and it’s a family town. It’s the little things, I believe, that need to be taken care. Start watching for changes because changes will be happening,” said Owen.

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