Jamestown has new mayor

Jamestown turned out to be the most unusual case in a series of unusual municipal elections in Moniteau County.

Not only was the mayoral race to be decided by write-in - the clear winner declined the office.

Fifteen write-in candidates split a total of 34 votes for the position.

Dayna Coonce stepped up when Denise Colvin, who had the most votes at 15 of 34 cast, declined to become mayor.

Sworn in Monday, Coonce said, "I need to learn the basics."

Outgoing Mayor John Imhoff agreed to help her learn what needs to be done.

A lifelong resident of Jamestown, Coonce is interested in a good future for the small town. Her family also resides in the area.

A number of Moniteau County races were decided by write-in votes in the April 4 election.

In Clarksburg, new Mayor Larry Carpenter, North Ward Alderman Donna Ward and South Ward Alderman Larry Carpenter all earned their positions on write-in votes, according to election results now certified by the Moniteau County Clerk's office.

Only 18.61 percent of registered voters turned out countywide, much less than the prediction of 40 percent.