Frank Sarno, Mike Bagnell and Mayor Theresa Kelly have been certified as the winners of last Tuesday’s election, according to the Ventnor city clerk — but a recount for the final spot is still possible.
Sarno and Bagnell, the challengers on a slate with Albert Battaglia, received 1,175 and 1,213 votes, respectively. Kelly, who was four votes behind following the machine and mail-in count, ended up two votes ahead of Battaglia for the third and final seat.
Of the 48 provisional ballots counted Wednesday by the Atlantic County Board of Elections, Kelly received 20 votes and Battaglia 14, making the final count 1,164 to 1,162 in favor of Kelly. Another 14 provisional ballots were rejected by the board.
Battaglia said he’s awaiting a records request from the Board of Elections for the 14 rejected provisional ballots, many of which he says were rejected because of “penmanship.”
“We’ll see how we’re going to proceed when we get the materials from our (request),” Battaglia said. “If it looks promising, we’ll continue with that.”
He and his attorney would have to convince a judge to order a recount, according to the Board of Elections.
While that decision is being made, a swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for noon Tuesday at City Hall. The commissioners would then choose a mayor from among themselves.
Longport's swearing-in ceremony will also be held at noon Tuesday at Borough Hall.
Contact Steven Lemongello:
609-272-7275
