NEWPORT — Newport City voters elected Rick Ufford-Chase as mayor and chose two new members for the city council in Tuesday’s municipal election.
Ufford-Chase received 427 votes running unopposed for the mayor’s position. He currently serves as Executive Director of Newport Downtown Development.
Following the election results, Ufford-Chase said he is looking forward to digging in and addressing the next big questions before the city, and after meeting with all three council members he is optimistic about what they will be able to accomplish together.
“Sometimes this kind of work is all about momentum, and there’s a lot of momentum in Newport right now,” Ufford-Chase said. “For folks who have always wanted to be involved in building Newport back up, now’s the moment. I hope you’ll begin attending Council meetings, adding positive energy, and looking for ways to get directly involved.”
In the city council race, Andrew Touchette led with 345 votes, followed by Carter Finegan with 301 votes. Both newcomers secured council seats. Incumbent Clark Curtis received 167 votes. Carl King (130) and Adam Ortiz (49) were also on the ballot.
Touchette, a lifelong Vermonter who has lived in Newport City for nine years, is an active member of the Newport City Fire Department.
“Being accountable, transparent and listening to what the community needs and wants, are my top priorities,” he said.
Upon winning her council seat, Finegan expressed gratitude to supporters and voters, saying she looks forward to serving Newport City for the next two years.
“A huge thanks is due to my supporters and I appreciate all who turned out to this years election,” Finegan said in a statement. “Please stay connected, and patient with me as I transition into this new roll.”
Jim Johnson won reelection to three-year terms as city clerk and treasurer.
