PERU — Richard Powell was sworn in as selectman Thursday after John Witherell conceded victory to him in Tuesday’s tie vote at the polls.
Each received 284 votes, according to the original tally. As ballot clerks were recounting the vote Wednesday, Witherell conceded the race to Powell, Town Clerk Vera Parent said Friday.
She said the recount resulted in the same tally: 284-284.
Voters on Tuesday also approved an ordinance to prohibit town employees from serving as a selectman or member of the Finance Committee. Selectman Kathy Hussey, who is a town employee, faces a choice between retaining her elected office or her employment with the town.
The town is seeking legal advice for clarification on the issue and the matter will be discussed at the next selectmen’s meeting.
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