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Matthews, Reading headed for District 1 runoff

By Greg Phillips
Published: July 14, 2009
Updated: July 15, 2009

Another commission election, another runoff for District 1.

Incumbent Larry Matthews will face an old foe in James Reading, who he beat by just five votes in 2005, after Tuesday’s crowded race resulted in the district’s fourth consecutive runoff election.

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Five candidates filled the ballots in District 1, but in the end it was Matthews, with 525 votes, and Reading, with 372, who made it to the runoff on Aug. 25.

Tuesday’s results didn’t surprise either candidate.

“I figured there would be a runoff because of the amount of candidates,” Matthews said. “I didn’t want there to be one, but it’s all good.”

First-time candidate Kevin Dorsey nearly beat out Reading to get into the runoff, finishing with 330 votes.

“I would like to congratulate Kevin Dorsey. He ran a very good race for a first-timer,” Reading said.

Now, the candidates’ focus is on continuing an already long campaign.

“Our work is just beginning, because we’ve been there and done that,” Reading said. “My message is staying the same. I’m asking (supporters) to please go back to the runoff to vote, and I need their support just one more time.”

Matthews said he will remain a supporter of economic progress in the district.

“The people of my district want to progress and move everything forward instead of setting things back,” he said. “I feel we’ll get more of a setback if we go with the other candidate.”

Reading sees himself as a voice for the people.

“The people for District 1 haven’t had a voice the last four years. I think I’m better able to articulate the needs and identify with the needs of District 1,” Reading said.

City Commission - District 1