Bettendorf election: Vacancy to be filled

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By Times Staff | Wednesday, November 7, 2007 1:05 AM CST | () comments

A Bettendorf physician will be sworn in at the next Bettendorf City Council meeting, having defeated three opponents Tuesday for the city’s vacant 5th Ward seat.

The Aug. 31 resignation of Alderman Carolyn Koos, who took a job out of town, means that James Stewart, an anesthesiologist, will take her seat on Nov. 19. Stewart won the election with 320 votes, or 30 percent.

“We did a good job of getting out and talking to people and getting the word out and putting up signs,” Stewart said. “I think the council works really well together, and I want to be a part of that team. I don’t want to create any conflict. I just want to collaborate with the other members and keep the city moving forward.”

The closest opponent was behind by 55 votes, which spares the city a coin toss. Bettendorf is not a runoff city, which means the highest vote-getter is the winner. Had Stewart tied with any of the others, state law calls for a coin toss.