Incumbents victories
By Jimmy Isaac
Incumbent Mayor Jay Dean coasted, as expected, to his third term, while District 1 (West Longview) Councilman John Sims survived two challengers and also won a third term.
Sims claimed 57.5 percent, or 188 votes, to claim victory. Construction contractor David Sparks garnered 89 votes, or 27.2 percent, while Samantha Clark, a retired ultrasound technician who serves as associate pastor of Triumphant Christian Center, claimed 50 votes, or 15.3 percent.
Meanwhile, Dean took a dominating 90.4 percent, or 1,922 votes, for mayor on Saturday. His challenger, former Kmart employee Tammy Barnes, garnered 204 votes.
Gary L. Smith was unopposed in his bid for District 2 (Southwest Longview) city councilman, replacing Daryl Williams, who is completing his third and final term. City ordinances limit councilmen to three terms in office.
