Fort Smith (Oct 27/03) - Peter Martselos has been returned for a third term as mayor of Fort Smith.

Martselos defeated challenger Fred Daniels 693 votes to 443 in the Oct. 20 municipal election.

His priorities will continue to be economic growth and improved highway connections, including completion of chipsealing on Highway 5 and promoting the controversial new winter road through Wood Buffalo National Park.

"I believe roads bring economic opportunity to the community," Martselos said.

Six councillors were also elected from 13 candidates.

Returning incumbents are Tim McDonald with 710 votes; Marion Berls (626 votes), Beckie Linaker (593 votes) and Earl John Olsen (579 votes), along with former councillor Pat Burke who garnered 575 votes.

First time candidate Westly Steed topped the polls with 864 votes.

Steed joked that he was "shocked and stunned" by the result.

"I think I'm a little bit overwhelmed that many people voted for me."

Steed was born and raised in Fort Smith where his father served a term as deputy mayor 30 years ago. He hopes people voted for him because they see him as fair.

"I hope I get that many votes if I run a second time," said Steed, who is manager of the Thebacha Campus Student Association.

The election for mayor and council drew 76 per cent of voters to the polls.