By Sara Quam
Luverne's close race for the south ward City Council seat will mean a recount - the first recount in more than 20 years according to some residents' memories.
The counts came within single digits for candidates Alex Frick, David Hauge, and David Cook with Frick losing by a hair.
Hauge garnered 116 votes, Cook brought in 114 and Frick had 113. The tally eliminates Frick from the fall ballot.
Frick said, "I'm deeply disappointed that this election has been hijacked by a whisper campaign of innuendo and misinformation, especially in regards to the Jubilee TIF project. I will ask for an immediate recount."
Failing the recount, Frick said he will ask voters to write him in on the ballot because he still believes he is the best man for the job.
City Clerk Marianne Perkins said Frick has until Monday to ask for a recount in writing. "We're reading statutes to make sure we're doing it correctly," she said.
David Cook was surprised he made the cut. "I couldn't believe it was that close. I went door to door campaigning, but I think I have more to do after this."
Cook said, "I thought the others would have a better chance because of their name recognition. - Last week Alex said the city is like a big business, and I think people think that's part of the problem, but I'm happy that I might get the chance to sit on the board of directors."
David Hauge could not be reached for comment before press time.