Gadman, the appraisal division manager in the county Assessor’s Office, said the results reaffirmed the City Council’s decision to appoint him to the position this year.
“I am happy that the Lacey voters feel that I am qualified for this position,” he said.
He said goals for his first full term include completing a feasibility study for a public-private partnership for a civic center, completing the train depot and making major progress on the College Street corridor.
Arras said he is not ready to concede the race but noted that he’s not sure if the trend is reversible.
“I think we both showed that we would be a good city councilman,” he said. “Basically it’s been a long battle.”
He added that he and Gadman have clear differences, but that he didn’t think it was articulated well enough on the campaign.
Once Arras and Gadman emerged from the August primary, Arras said that “stark differences” would emerge between Gadman and him.
Arras’ message focused on fiscal stewardship. He painted Gadman as indecisive, saying Gadman waited too long to take a stance on issues such as what to do with the city’s B&O tax.
In response, Gadman said he used his time on the council to get comfortable and build relationships with fellow council members and staff. During that time, he was able to secure the endorsements of five council members.
Gadman raised about $16,500 for his campaign, about $6,600 more than Arras, according to state Public Disclosure Commission figures.
Because the seat is an unfinished term, the winner will be sworn in as soon as election results are certified, according to state law.
Nate Hulings: 360-754-5476 nhulings@theolympian.com
