Tribal council votes close

The Colville Tribes had some very close races in the Colville Business Council general election June 24.

The poll votes and absentee votes were certified on Thursday.

In Nespelem Position 1 race, Rodney Cawston won over Ricky Gabriel, 392-285. Gabriel had been expelled from the council a week earlier by vote of the council on ethics grounds.

In Nespelem’s Position 2 race, longtime business Councilmember Andy Joseph Jr. won out over Charlene Bearcub, 375-305.

In the Inchelium Position 1 race, Joel Boyd won over Alan Hammond, 353-124. In the district’s Position 2 race, incumbent Elizabeth “Susie” Allen drew 252 votes to Marvin Kheel’s 228 votes.

In Keller District’s Position 1 race, Jack W. Ferguson won over John F. Stensgar, 127-78.

In the Omak District, Norma J. Sanchez captured the Position 1 seat by defeating Richard C. Tonasket, 421-194.

In Omak’s Position 2 race, Melissa Louis won a close contest over Russell W. Boyd, 312-301.

The business council is made up of 14 members, half coming up for election each year, and serve two-year terms.

The elected council members will be sworn in July 13.