Wasilla council swears in

While the borough election results are still undecided, the city of Wasilla finalized its regular city election at Monday's council meeting.

Howard O'Neil was re-elected to Seat A by 743 votes; O'Neil was first elected to the council in October of 2000. Diana Straub was elected to Seat B by 764 votes; Straub was appointed to the council in October of last year. Both terms are for three years, with the seats up for re-election in October 2006.

"I'd like to thank the people who came out and voted," said O'Neil after being sworn in by the city clerk. "I'd especially like to thank the 743 people who came out and voted for me."

An even 1,000 poll votes were counted in this year's city election, 23.3 percent of Wasilla voters. While pleased with the voter's decisions, Straub said she hopes to see an even greater turnout during the next election.

"Let's turn that 23.3 percent into 50 percent," she said.

The council members took their Oath of Office in front of a small gathering of city residents and other council members at the end of Tuesday's regular city council meeting. Wasilla Mayor Dianne Keller had some words of encouragement for both of the council members.

"I congratulate you both," Keller said. "I'm sure you are glad elections are over, and are ready to get back to work."