Ward 1 Voters Approve James as New Councilman

Robert James bested William Gallagher in a two-way race for the Ward 1 council seat on Nov. 8. James earned 1,326 votes (56.12 percent) to Gallagher’s 1,037  votes (43.88 percent).

James, a lawyer, thanked Gallagher after learning he won the election.

“The first thing is I am deeply humbled and honored that Ward 1 residents asked me to serve,” James said. “I want to thank Mr. Gallagher. He put on a good campaign. I also want to thank m wife Laura, friends and supporters.

James said he plans on honoring his campaign platform of fiscal responsibility.

“Number 1, I want to make sure the city lives within its means,” James said. “I want to review efficiencies with city services and the budget.

“I also want the study some of the wonderful proposals (discussed) for economic development. It will make working within our means that much easier.”

He added he was looking forward to working with the current council.

“It’s a good hard working group,” James said.

Gallagher said he accepted the results.

“The voters spoke and obviously I wasn’t the chosen one and I wish Mr. James the best of luck and I hope he does everything he campaigned on. Ward 1 thought he was a better representative and I’ll respect that.”

Gallagher, a businessman who owns Suntan Supply in Avon, said he plans on remaining active in the city and would continue the push to move the old high school board to Learwood Middle School.

“I’ll continue to be the activist I’ve always been,” he said. I want to get fundraising for moving the sign from the high school to Learwood. I’ll move forward with fundraising to get it done and powered up.

“I’m not going to change anything I’ve been. I’ll continue to coach and be involved with my kids.”