Elections - wrapping up

Lake Forest Park City Council candidate Josh Rosenau defeated incumbent Jon Lebo, marking a significant shift in local governance. Prop. 1, which aimed to enhance public safety funding, lost by a mere 25 votes. Joe Marshall's 26-vote lead over Tracy Banaszynski will trigger a machine recount, as it represents less than 0. 5% of ballots cast.

Election officials reported 9 “curable” ballots with bad signatures and 15 ballots where voters selected both candidates, but these discrepancies will not alter the final results. The City Council will now analyze budget cuts due to the failed Prop. 1. A statement from the city encouraged residents to engage in upcoming budget discussions. The LFP Strong Pro Committee expressed disappointment over the close defeat and emphasized the challenges ahead for public safety funding.

They noted that the community may face service cuts unless funding strategies are adjusted.