A single vote separates a pair of 70-year-old political newcomers in their quest to sit on the Woodland City Council.
Robert Ripp, a retired repairman, has assumed the lead over opponent Scott Perry, a retired real estate broker, in their race to replace former councilman Aaron Christopherson, who resigned earlier this year.
Perry led Ripp by two votes, 563-561, early last week, but Ripp took a 568-567 lead after suspended votes in Cowlitz County were added. The Columbian previously printed incorrect information listing Perry ahead 653-651.
The election results will be certified Nov. 29. Should the race remain within a half of a percentage point, an automatic recount will take place. If a tie exists after the recount, the winner would be determined by coin toss.
An automatic recount also appears likely in a Washougal council race between challenger Caryn Plinski and 19-year councilman Rodney Morris. The latest count has Plinski leading Morris by seven votes, 1497-1490.
