Recount Likely In Camdenton School Board Race After Incumbent Wins By One Vote

CAMDENTON, Mo. — A razor-thin margin in the Camdenton R-III School Board election has prompted preparations for a possible recount, Camden County Clerk Rowland Todd confirmed Thursday.

Incumbent Eric Walters and Debra Wright were separated by just one vote in the race for the second of two available board seats April 8. While Jacob Neusche was the top vote-getter, the second seat initially went to Walters — but that could change with a court-ordered recount.

“We’ll certify the election results tomorrow at noon, which is the earliest we can legally do that,” Todd said. “Once certified, Debra Wright has five days to file a petition with the circuit court to request a recount — and I’ve already talked to her about that.”

If the petition is filed, a judge would have to approve the recount, which would involve rerunning all ballots that included the Camdenton school board race.

“There’s no reason she wouldn’t be entitled to it,” Todd said. “As long as the margin is less than half a percent, a recount is allowed.”

The timeline depends on when the petition is filed and when a judge can schedule a hearing. Todd said he hopes the process moves quickly so the election can be finalized sometime next week.

“I’ve already contacted the circuit clerk’s office and spoken with both candidates and the board,” Todd said. “We’re ready to get this wrapped up as soon as possible.”