Runyan to Apply for Recount after Five-Vote Difference

Last Saturday's for one open seat on the Board of Selectmen that was decided by five votes will be challenged.

On Monday, assistant town clerk and Town Clerk-elect Amy Warfield confirmed candidate Michael Runyan collected the necessary paperwork to apply for a recount. Saturday's election results had Runyan losing to Daniel Grattan by five votes, 1,075 to 1,070. Candidate Virginia Mooney cornered 213 votes.

"Yes, I intend to do a recount," Runyan said Monday. "There is a little bit of legwork I need to do but before the end of the week I should have paperwork in order and back to the clerk’s office."

According to Massachusetts General Law, a candidate seeking a recount in a town with a government structure like Burlington is required to fill out all paperwork and submit it within 10 days of the election. The candidate is also required to get 10 signatures from residents in each precinct.

The candidate must also choose which type of recount they are applying for, a re-do of the computer scan of the ballots or a hand count.

"The application is rather pointed," Runyan said. "I need to choose very carefully how I fill them out. If not, it will be discounted and I will lose this opportunity. I will consult with folks tomorrow and make sure we have the right language and choose the right recount we are looking for."

Though on Saturday Runyan stated his belief in the vote-counting process and the competency in the election staff in Burlington, he said he is still hopeful a recount could yield different results.

"I’m always optimistic," he said. "Technically, if we can get just a three vote swing in our direction, we could prevail. It’s not out of the question by any means."

Grattan, who was sworn in Monday as the announced winner, said he expected Runyan to apply for a recount.

"I had aniticipated it," he said. "I'm looking forward to seeing the results."