Schmeltzer defeats Anderson in Washakie County Commission race

Challenger Tom Schmeltzer of Worland defeated incumbent Aaron Anderson of Ten Sleep by 561 votes in the race for the four-year Washakie County Commissioner position during Tuesday's primary election.

Schmeltzer won the county commissioner election with 1,309 votes. "Thank everyone for their vote," Schmeltzer said. "I look forward to serving them."

Sixteen-year County Commissioner, Anderson received 748 votes. "Congratulations to Tom," Anderson said. "I appreciate all the support over the years and thank you for the opportunity to serve."

There were several precinct committee races decided Tuesday night.

Republican Committeeman 3-1 goes to Ed Cooper with a total of 257 votes. Republican

Committeewoman 3-1 had Lisa Collen win with 177 votes. Alanna Lyman had 100.

Republican Committeeman 5-1 had Mike Greear, 277, and Rodger Lawley, 266, win the seats. Jeff Pomeroy was in third with 141 votes.

Republican Committeewoman 5-1 seats went to Martha Lawley, 335, and Kathy Loveland, 225. Rodica Johnson had 75 votes. 

Republican Committeeman 5-2 had Brad Horath, 239, and Robert Burgess, 210, win the seats. David Ahlstrom had 198 votes.

Republican Committeewoman 5-2 went to Barbara Burgess, 318, and Mandy Horath, 250.

Republican Committeeman 5-3 went to Mike Neufer with 115 votes. Tim Young, 85, and Andrew Stiles, 28, were the other candidates.

Republican Committeewoman 5-3 went to Lily Rakness Parra with 140 votes. Toni DeWitt was in second with 86 votes.

Republican Committeeman 5-5 seats have Landis Benson, 468, Franco Romero, 429, and Nick Nickelson. Mathew Bates had 226 votes.

Republican Committeewoman 5-5 seats go to Janet Benson, 401, Brenda Ferguson, 381, and Catherine Orchard, 247. Other candidates were Janeen Capshaw, 226, Elizabeth Bates, 106, Bonnie Nickelson, 102, and Debra Vanderwerff, 76.

Democratic Committeewoman 5-5 goes to Phyllis Roseberry with 22 votes.

All votes are unofficial until the canvassing board meets this week.