Incumbent Wins Fourth Ward Council Seat

Wayne Hamer has won the fourth ward city council seat vacated by the death of longtime public servant Jack Drakeford. 

Hamer received 1532 votes, with 444 going to opponent Curtis Caviness, according to unofficial numbers released by the city clerk's office. Hamer will finish Drakeford's unexpired term. 

Hamer, a city council member from 1996 to 2003 and financial adviser, was appointed by the council to fill Drakeford's seat Sept. 4. In candidate forums, he cited his 24 years as a city resident and history of public service. He pledged to increase communication between residents and city officials. 

Caviness, a Teaneck health official and former city school board member, had also pointed to his years of service in the city and as a community activist. 

The two discussed their views on issues ranging from safety to the city's master plan process at an October candidates forum. 

Mayor Frank Huttle and At-Large Councilwoman Lynne H. Algrant ran unopposed.