By David Fleet

Editor

Atlas Twp.-Voter turnout on Tuesday topped Genesee County averages as 78 percent of those registered in the township cast their ballots. Of 6,259 registered, 4,870 voted in the presidential election which went almost two to one in favor of GOP candidate Donald Trump, who received 2,987 votes over Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton with 1,567.

Local races were much closer.

The Goodrich Village Council will have two new members after long time incumbents Pete Morey and Rick Horton did not seek reelection. Incumbent Shannon McCafferty was reelected with 485 votes, followed by newcomers Timothy M. Light with 413 votes and Timothy Barraco who garnered 328. The three defeated challengers Wendy Ciaramitaro, 316 votes; Richard Saroli, 292 votes and Colin Consiglio, 278 votes.

McCafferty will serve for four years on the council.

“Thank you for voting me in office and the 485 votes,” said McCafferty. “Thank you, too, for putting signs in your yards and liking my Facebook page. I look forward to working with the community.”

Timothy Light will also serve four years on the village council.

“First, thank you voters—it’s a new experience and humbling,” said Light. “I’d like to see more community involvement and move past the divisions of the past. It’s been counterproductive and it’s time to move forward.”

As the third highest vote-getter, Barraco will serve for two years.

“I look forward to working with the community,” said Barraco. “Thanks for voting me in and I’ll work to make Goodrich a great place to work live and grow.”

Two six-year seats were open on the Goodrich School Board as incumbents Linda Jackson won reelection with 2,770 votes along with former school trustee Howard “Chip” Schultz with 2,738 votes. Board challenger Justin Gailitis tallied 2,003 votes.

“On an election day that will go down in history, I would like to thank my family, friends, and the Goodrich School District voters for your support and votes,” said Schultz, who was appointed to the board in 2011 and elected in 2012, but lost a bid for a six year term in 2014. “I could not have done this without all of you. I am looking forward to January and returning to the Goodrich School Board. As I have said in past postings, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.”

In Atlas Township, former township clerk Teresa L. Onica (R) ran unopposed for supervisor and received 3,471. Onica defeated two term incumbent supervisor Shirley Kautman-Jones (R) in the August primary. In the race for township Clerk Katherine Vick (R) received 2,484 votes topping Craig Hutchins (NPA) with 1,502. Unopposed Incumbent Treasurer Ann Marie Slagle Moore (R) tallied 3,393 votes. Also, unopposed incumbent trustees Barry M. June (R) with 3,241 votes and Patrick Major (R) snagged 3,012 votes to retain their seats for the next four years.

At noon on election day voters were steady at Precinct 4 at the United Methodist Church, 8071 State Road, Goodrich.

“I’m happy it’s over,” said Ali Reichel. “We needed a change so I voted for Trump. I don’t agree with everything he did, but we’ve had the Clintons already. Gender should not be a reason to pick a president. Anyone else would be in jail.”

“I voted for Hillary,” said Dan Souheaver. “I support the Democrats’ policies and how they think.”

“This election was crazy,” said Glenda Main. “I voted for Trump. I did not trust Hillary—just don’t believe her. I felt Trump was not being bought by anyone.”

“I voted for Trump,” said Tere Onica.

“Hillary was guilty of obstruction of justice; destruction of government property. She is in your face guilty—a try and catch me attitude. This election was criminal versus crude, corruption versus crass, the establishment versus the people. Trump did nothing illegal– his honesty and transparency was an excellent quality to have. Finally, she violated public trust along with compromising and endangering national security—I’m offended.”

“I voted for Hillary Clinton,” said Sharon Knights. “I’m a Democrat and it was not hard to make a decision. It’s an easy choice this year and I’m glad it’s over. I’m tired of pointing fingers.”

“I’m glad it’s over,” said Charles Petherbridge. “I’m not saying how I’m voting, but I made up my mind three months ago.”

“I voted who I felt was the best,” said Jeff Ex. “I’m not a straight ticket voter, not 100 percent satisfied with the choices for president. I really did not feel comfortable with our choice for leadership.”