Metaline Falls to have new mayor

NEWPORT – For the first time since 2008, Metaline Falls will have a new mayor. Incumbent Mayor Tara Leininger was defeated by political newcomers Walter Minsal and Sherice McAnerin in the Primary Election that concluded Aug. 5.

McAnerin received 35 votes, Minsal 30 votes and Leininger 20 votes, with one write-in vote. McAnerin and Minsal advance to the General Election in the non-partisan race.

McAnerin, who runs Sherice Anne Photography, said she was honored by the support she received and thanked the people who participated in the election “I’m looking forward to the next stage of the campaign and continuing to listen to and work with the people of Metaline Falls,” she said. “Every Monday, I invite anyone who would like to share their ideas about the town or stop by for a visit from 10 a.m. to noon.”

Minsal, who owns and operates Northern Auto in Metaline Falls, said the people wanted a new mayor.

“What the people want is change and they voted for it,” he said.

The only other item on the ballot also concerned north county voters.

Voters narrowly agreed to increase Fire District 2’s board of commissioners from three to five members, with 336 voting in favor and 333 voting against.

The overall turnout for the election was 35.72%, with a 48.09% turnout for the mayor’s race and a 25.72% turnout for the Fire District 2. The election will be certified Aug. 19.

In the special three-day candidate filing period that ended Aug. 7, five people filed for election, including two for a Metaline Falls Town Council position.

Robbin Witty and Mark Lockwood are both running for Metaline Falls Town Council Position No. 2.

Dennis Alligen filed for the Diamon Lake Water and Sewer District position, Julie Larson filled for the Chippewa Water and Sewer District position and Dean Selhay filed for the Lenora Water and Sewer District position.

The three-day filing period was for positions which had no candidates. There are still several boards that have no candidates. In those instances, the person holding the position usually agrees to continue in that position, says Pend Oreille County Election Supervisor Liz Krizenesky.