Harkendorff exits mayor race
Harkendorff navigates upheaval
FALLS CITY – The Richardson County elections office reports a candidate withdrawal form by Falls City Mayor Mark Harkendorff.
The mayor signed the form on Thursday.
Harkendorff has navigated upheaval during his term, including the resignation of City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum on Feb. 3. Former City Clerk Gary Jorn was appointed to fill the position on a part-time basis at $75 per hour.
A recall petition led by former City Councilwoman Kaylie Ractliffe fell short of the signatures needed.
At the time of the recall, Ractliffe said it sometimes seemed as if the mayor did not understand agenda items.
Mayor Harkendorff said the recall was an unfair reaction to the resignation of the electric lineman crew. This spring six members of the electric crew resigned.
At a public meeting, Harkendorff said he wished the employees had reached out to him before making their decision. He said the door was open for re-hire.
Councilmen Kenny Killingsworth has filed for election as mayor. The deadline to file for the office is March 2.