City of Kearney Council Chambers, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Incumbent Jonathan Nikkila lead the race for Kearney City Council, six will move on to the general election in November.
According to unofficial results released by the Buffalo County Election Commissioner late Tuesday, May 12, Nikkila came in first with 3,493, followed by Alex Straatmann with 3,411 and Shawna Meyer with 1840.
With Mayor Stan Clouse and Councilman Bruce Lear stepping down after 20 years of service, Nikkila was the sole incumbent on the city council ballot.
Nikkila said he is excited for the new leadership opportunity as two seats are opening. “No matter what happens, we will have new people serving on the city council. That is exciting to have new voices.”
The others advancing include Kurt Schmidt, 1,654 votes; Bryce Nelson, 674 and Jamie Bernu.
Others in the race included Eric Davis, 464 and Eric Mortimore, 255.
