Incumbent Karen Foyteck far outpaced challengers in Monday’s school election, with newcomer Joan Patterson earning enough votes for the second available seat on the Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education.
Foyteck garnered 1,181 votes, with Patterson finishing second with 964. They will begin their new four-year terms on July 1.
By a 1,793-507 margin, voters also approved a 4.5-mill renewal of the ‘non-homestead? property tax levy, effectively restoring the full 18-mill tax on commercial, rental and second-residence properties.
Foyteck, a 12-year school board veteran and the current board president, had campaigned on her experience and her desire to see projects such as bond construction and grade configuration to a successful conclusion.
Patterson claimed qualifications as a systems analyst, professional tennis player and business owner and promised to promote better district communications and better parent involvement in school activities.
A total of 2,353 votes were cast. Based on school officials? estimate of 30,753 registered voters, turnout was about 7.7 percent.
Another board vacation looms with Trustee Tony Miller’s resignation, effective July 1. Unsuccessful candidates in Monday’s election ? and other citizens ? have the opportunity to apply for appointment to the board until the next regular election.
According to a schedule discussed at Monday’s school board meeting, applications for the open seat are expected to be available July 1, with the board to conduct interviews and make their selection no later than July 30.