PORT ANGELES — Brad Collins has pulled ahead in a close horse race for Port of Port Angeles commissioner that remains undecided with 2,031 ballots in the countywide contest still not counted.
Collins, who trailed incumbent Commissioner and board President John Calhoun by 48 votes on Tuesday, took a 196-vote lead after 6,909 more ballots in the all-mail general election were counted Friday.
Collins, the deputy director of resource development for the Serenity House of Clallam County and a former Port Angeles city community development director, now leads 50.57 percent to 49.43 percent.
“That’s good news,” said Collins, 61, upon learning of the results.
“I was optimistic, and I think it’s kind of what I expected. I’ve been feeling we ran a good campaign, and I think this is indicative of how the port needs to look at some of its decisions a little more carefully.”
The race for the six-year port commissioner Position 3 seat was the only countywide race in the general election.
As of Friday, 17,190 ballots had been tallied, with Collins ahead 8,693 votes to 8,497 votes.
Patty Rosand, Clallam County Auditor, said most of the remaining ballots are from Sequim and from Forks, where Calhoun lives.
Collins said he was challenged by Calhoun’s experience and $9,699 in campaign contributions. He thanked his supporters for helping to make up the $6,199 difference in campaign donations.
“John’s a strong candidate, and I’m kind of a newbie,” he said.
Calhoun called Collins shortly after the results were posted on line to congratulate his opponent on the trend moving in his direction.
“I don’t expect that to be reversed,” Calhoun said.
“I think that’s a big lead to overcome.”
Calhoun will not concede the race, however, until most of the ballots are counted.
More counted Monday
He figures to make up some ground on Monday when the 2,031 outstanding ballots are counted.
Calhoun, 65, said he connects well with the electorate in both cities. He is the director of the University of Washington Natural Resources Center.
Both candidates expressed a sense of relief to be finished campaigning.
“It’s been a long haul,” Cahoun said. “Brad and I worked hard.”
“Having never done this before, it’s amazing how long it seems when you’re in it,” Collins added.
“I’ve been quite satisfied. The race has been a very good, competitive race. I truly appreciate the support I’ve gotten.”
The Auditor’s Office mailed 45,739 ballots on Oct. 14.
Results of the election will be certified on Nov. 24.
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-417-3537 or at rob.ollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
