Fort Smith (Oct 23/06) - A majority of Fort Smith's council incumbents survived the test of Oct. 16th's municipal election.

"Obviously people in Fort Smith didn't want to see a change," said Blaine Walterhouse.

Only two new councillors were elected - Brenda Johnson and Fred Daniels. The rest of the council has served for at least the past six years.

All together, the councillors of Fort Smith now represent some 49 years of council experience.

Peter Martselos, the re-elected mayor, is into his 22nd year on council and 10th year as mayor.

Walterhouse, owner of Lou's Small Engines, was born and raised in Fort Smith. "I personally think we are due for a change," he said, adding that maybe people didn't think the new names put forward were acceptable.

Chris Westwell, manager of Cascade computer store in Fort Smith, said he didn't think that was the case.

"It's encouraging to know there is a good portion of people out there looking for change," he said. He hopes the fact that ten new candidates ran in the election will provide a "wake-up call" to council.

Westwell said he wants to see more projects completed. He called the council "stale" and said that projects have not been finished fast enough.

"It's too long with too little," he said.

However, "the people have spoken" Pat Burke, a long-standing councillor, said.

"There is just a lot more we can do as an experienced council than a green council," said Burke.

Mayor Martselos agreed. He said it will make it easier for the new councillors.

Burke said it is good that two new councillors are joining the "old-timers."

"It gives us that advantage of having new ideas," he said.

Martselos said there are two priorities that council needs to address this term. First, is tackling a problem with vandalism, which was a major campaign point.

The second is the upgrade of Highway 5, which would improve economic development opportunities and tourism.