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Newcomer faces 2 veterans in quiet Kenneth City race

By ANNE LINDBERG
Published March 12, 2006

KENNETH CITY - Voters can choose between a political newcomer and two veterans for the two open seats on the Town Council in Tuesday's election.

Wanda Dudley, a first-grade teacher at Westgate Elementary School, is making her first run at political office. She faces Al Carrier, who served on the council and is a member of the Board of Adjustment, and Russ Dumont, who also served on the council as an appointee to fill a vacated seat. Dumont is chairman of the Board of Adjustment.

Dumont, 70, has lived in Kenneth City since 1964. He is a retired senior engineering aide from Honeywell. He owns his home and has no debts. His experience, Dumont has said, will help him hit the ground running.

He said Friday that the election campaign has been quiet with little controversy, which is a good thing. He said he looks forward to serving again on the council.

Carrier, 70, did not return a phone message asking for comment. Like Dumont, he is retired, owns his home and has no debts. Previously, Carrier has said he has the time and experience to be a good council member.

Dudley, 48, is a graduate of Eckerd College. She moved to Kenneth City in 1983 and has a home and eight vehicles. Her home is mortgaged.

She says she is running for the betterment of the town and to help improve communications between residents and town officials. Dudley says her education and experience will have a positive impact on the town. Her election, she has said, will bring new ideas to the council table.

Council members are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the town, with each member overseeing a department. The mayor oversees all the town's operations. The council meets at least twice a month, once in a voting meeting and once in a workshop. Members earn $3,600 annually and serve two-year terms.

The two top vote-getters will win the open seats. Kenneth City has about 4,500 residents.

Voters will also have a chance to make seven changes to the town charter. Most are housekeeping items. For instance, one referendum would make the monthly council workshop optional. If it passes, council members will not have to hold a workshop unless there is business to discuss.

[Last modified March 12, 2006, 01:18:21]