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DICKINSON — In the Stark County Commission race for the District 4 commission seat, Paul Clarys defeated incumbent Carla Arthaud. The North Dakota Secretary of State's Office called the race at around 9:15 p.m. Clarys led Arthaud 55.7% to 44% with 8,396 votes counted.
In a phone conversation with The Dickinson Press Tuesday night, Clarys was unaware the race had been officially called in his favor.
"God bless America," he exclaimed.
Clarys said this was his first time running for public office.
"The outpouring of support is just really humbling," Clarys said. "When you dip your toe into this thing, you just have no idea how people are going to receive you... It's been tremendous. I appreciate every one of them (my supporters). It's been awesome."
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When asked about his priorities, he emphasized his goals of serving the citizens of Stark County.
"I mean I want to keep taxes as low as possible but still maintain the services for our citizens here," Clarys said. "I mean, what's your agenda Paul? That's kind of the point for me, because I don't have an agenda. I just want to do the work, I'm excited."
Arthaud could not be reached for comment.
Cory White won the District 2 commission seat in an uncontested race. Incumbent Ken Zander is retiring after 20 years on the commission.
According to North Dakota Century Code chapter 11-11, every county commission must have no fewer than three commissioners and no more than five. Stark County has five.
Century Code also lists the general duties of these commissioners, which included superintending the fiscal affairs of the county and supervising the conduct of its employees.
According to Auditor and Treasurer Karen Richard, Stark County Commissioners are paid an approximate annual salary of $27,000.
