Hill Re-Elected As Holbrook Mayor, Searles And Carlisle Win Council Seats

By Francie Payne
   Holbrook Mayor Jeff Hill won re-election handily Tuesday, according to the unofficial results, defeating former city manager David Newlin 568-194. One write-in vote was cast.
   Political newcomer Matthew Searles won election to the council outright, as did Councilman Wade Carlisle. Searles garnered the most votes in the race for three council seats with 484, followed closely by Carlisle with 458. Myron Maxwell drew 280 votes; Eva Purvis, 259; William Stewart, 242; Spike Simmons, 232; and Melissa Prather, 59. Twelve write-in votes were cast in the council election.
   “As long as we’re moving forward, I’ll work as hard as I can,” said Hill. “When that’s no longer happening, I’ll step aside and let someone else do it, but that’s not the case now. I look forward to continuing to work for Holbrook.”
   “I just want to thank the citizens of Holbrook for their friendship and support,” said Searles. “I will do my best to do what’s best for Holbrook.”
   As of Wednesday morning, 24 early ballots remained to be counted. If the standings do not change, Maxwell and Purvis will square off in the May 12 general election for the final council seat.
   Holbrook has 2,577 registered voters, and 776 cast ballots at Tuesday’s election for a 30 percent turnout. The 2007 primary election drew 581 voters for a 24 percent turnout.