Decision Day 2024 Results: City Council, City Charter Changes, and Local Mayoral Race

(KNSI) – Four cities held mayoral or city council elections Tuesday, ushering in new eras in municipal government.

St. Cloud had a choice between two city council members. Voters opted for Jake Anderson with 51.7% of the vote versus Mike Conway’s 47.5%. Anderson replaces the retiring Dave Kleis, who has been mayor for the past 20 years. The theme of change continued in the council election. Incumbent George Hontos was not able to finish in the top three of a six-person field. Tami Calhoun, Mark Johnson, and Scott Brodeen all earned at-large seats.

St. Cloud voters approved both ballot questions. Beginning in 2029, city elections will shift to odd years. A referendum passed approving a new fire station near Tech High School. It is expected to cost $43.5 million.

St. Joseph voters selected Adam Scepaniak as mayor with 44.4% of the vote in a three-way race. Kelly Beniek and Adam Schnettler were chosen for the city council.

Sartell only voted on the city council. Pat Lynch and Rustin Deters won from a pool of three potential candidates.

Sauk Rapids overwhelmingly preferred Jason Ellering for Mayor, with 57% opting for him over Nick Sauer. Fewer than 100 votes decided the city council race. Dottie Seamans and Clinton Holmgren were separated by only 0.8%. Nipping at their heels was David Rixe, who tallied over 26% of the vote but will wind up on the outside looking in.

Waite Park voters narrowly tapped Ken Schmitt for Mayor to replace Rick Miller. Schmitt and his opponent, Mike Lindquist, are both current councilmen. Schmitt bested Lindquist by 81 votes.

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