Inuvik (Oct 25/04) - With an 87-vote cushion, incumbent mayoral candidate Peter Clarkson was returned to office in town elections Oct. 18.

"Wow, it was a close one," said Clarkson, who was acclaimed as mayor in the last municipal election. "I'm glad a lot of people got out and voted."

Voter turnout was 63 per cent, almost double the 35 per cent turn out last time.

Part of the reason for the increase could be credited to challenger Kurt Wainman, owner of Northwind Industries.

"I gave the mayor a fair challenge, mobilized a lot of people who don't normally vote in municipal elections and even some people who don't vote at all," Wainman said.

"It was a really good turnout and I'm glad Inuvik stood up and took notice."

Voters also elected three new councillors: Terry Halifax, Karen King and Paul Komaromi.

They join veteran councillors Arlene Hansen, Gayle Gruben, Clarence Wood, Denny Rodgers and Derek Lindsay.