Newcomer joins incumbents on Union Gap City Council

UNION GAP, Wash. -- Two incumbents and one newcomer will serve the Union Gap City Council for four-year terms.

Preliminary ballot results Tuesday night showed veteran councilman Dan Vanover well ahead of opponent Delta Vincent, grabbing 62 percent of votes with 339 to her 205, or 37 percent.

Vanover, who has already completed two terms, pledged to retain the city's image of being "business friendly." He wants to prevent further cuts in the fire and police departments, and he supports being fiscally responsible with the city's budget.

"I'm very pleased," he said. "I've talked to a lot of people in town and had a pretty broad base of support.

"I hope to continue to work for the benefit of the citizens of Union Gap and try and make it a better city to live in."

In another race, incumbent Roger Wentz claimed 62 percent with 353 votes while his opponent, former Mayor Aubrey Reeves, received 210 votes, or 37 percent,for Position 7.

Wentz said his priorities included maintaining the costs of water and sewer rates, supporting activities for youths and seniors and spending some money on graffiti and litter cleanup.

"I feel positive," he said late Tuesday. "I think we've been doing some good things in the city. It's nice to have some encouragement and support from the citizens."

In the final race on the City Council, Chad Lenz grabbed 63 percent of the votes with 346 in Position 1, compared to the 191 votes, or 35 percent, garnered by the late incumbent Glenn C. Bateman, who died of cancer last month.

Taking a stand against tax increases, Lenz said he wants bike lanes and sidewalks added to future road projects when possible. His biggest priority, though, is public safety. He said he'll fight to protect the police and fire departments from further cuts.

* Erin Snelgrove can be reached at 509-577-7684 or esnelgrove@yakimaherald.com.

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