Incumbents hold leads in Spokane Valley council races

Two incumbents are leading in their races to keep their seats on the Spokane Valley City Council.

Ben Wick holds a narrow lead over Sam Wood, 50.1 percent to 48.9 percent of the vote for position 6.

Wick, who was ahead by 146 votes Tuesday night, said he was satisfied with the campaign he ran against Wood but was disappointed by low turnout.

“I did all I could,” Wick said.

Wood, who serves on the Spokane Valley Planning Commission and owns a real estate firm, was seeking his first elected post in Spokane Valley. He had the endorsements of several state representatives, including Rep. Matt Shea.

Arne Woodard holds a larger lead over former Mayor Tom Towey, 51.6 percent to 47.4 percent, for position 3.

Woodard said he was tired from a campaign that he called “clean, honest and straightforward.”

“I’ve called Tom Towey a friend for six years, and I always value that friendship,” Woodard said.

Woodard said he was excited and humbled by the results.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the citizens of Spokane Valley,” Woodard said.

Mayor Dean Grafos was not challenged in his re-election bid.