City Council race firm; Long vetos any recount

The North Las Vegas primary proved that just one vote -- or two -- can make a difference.

It made a major difference to City Council candidate Ron Long, who lost by two votes, 1,135 to opponent Marcia Blake's 1,137.

But not enough of a difference for him to ask for a recount.

Despite his close run for fourth place in Tuesday's election, Long said he has decided not to pursue a recount. The top four vote-getters advance to the general election, where two will win seats on the council.

The large number of candidates -- 13 -- coupled with low voter turnout -- 17.5 percent -- made it tough for any candidate to break away from the horse race to garner a majority vote, Long said.

"When you have low voter turnout and a lot of candidates, anything can happen," he said.

With campaign contributions totaling $32,746 and the backing of Mayor Michael Montandon, Long was an early favorite over Blake, who raised a comparatively paltry $2,550.

Long added he has yet to make a decision on whether to endorse any of the candidates who did advance to the June 8 election. In addition to Blake, the field was narrowed to incumbents William Robinson and Paula Brown and Planning Commissioner Shari Buck.

Blake said she believes Long's decision not to request a recount is a sign of his integrity. "It shows he believes the election committee did its job."

Blake said she is hopeful that residents will realize their vote does count.

"I think because we went door to door, it gave them (her supporters) the push they needed to get out to vote," the 26-year-old women's shoe department manager said.

Long, a 39-year-old partner in a small landscaping business, may make a future bid for city office, but he will continue to serve on the city's Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the Crime Prevention Task Force and the Eldorado Homeowners Association.

Long described the campaign as a great experience.

"The main reason I did it was because I think everyone should be involved in the community," he said. "It's not always about winning or losing."

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