Challenge Delays Kowalke Oath Ceremony

Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly candidate Randall Kowalke, who garnered the most votes in the District 7 race, was not sworn in last night. Opponent Doyle Holmes filed a notice of election contest late yesterday afternoon before the swearing-in ceremony. The  challenge requires the Borough Attorney Nicholas Spiropoulos to investigate the claim.

The District 7 seat represents Meadow Lakes, Willow, Trapper Creek, & the Talkeetna area, and is going to be vacated by mayor-elect Vern Halter. Kowalke was trailing at the polls to Holmes by 52 votes, but took the lead by 33 votes after the absentee and questioned ballots were counted.

An investigation hearing open to the public is set for Thursday, at 6pm, in the Assembly Chambers, 350 E. Dahlia Ave. in Palmer. A report is expected to be produced by Tues. Oct. 27.

Holmes' notice of contest is attached here.

The election was certified by the Assembly last night. Outgoing Mayor Larry DeVilbiss commended the Canvass Board for their fastidious ethical work. Canvass Board Chair Gerry Keeling gave a lengthy overview on the poll counts and the absentee ballot handling process.  Listen to Keeling report how the Talkeetna ballots were processed here.

Listen to Attorney Nick Spiropoulos discuss what will be evaluated.

For more information, call Patty Sullivan, Public Affairs Director, 861-8577 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.