Haley Ewell wins Nassau Bay council race by five votes; swearing-in set for June 10

Mayor (no name given) said the recent local election between Haley Ewell and James Abbey was "only separated by 5 votes," calling both candidates "very strong" and praising a positive campaign atmosphere. He said the count reflected the combination of ballot-by-mail and early in-person voting and that both candidates were tied entering election day.

The mayor said the results appear final, with a single caveat: any ballot returned by service members stationed abroad will be accepted until 5 p.m. on the deadline day. "I do not believe we have anybody abroad that's registered to vote in the military," he said, and added that he had called and congratulated Ewell.

City staff said the council will canvass the election results and that Ewell is expected to be formally seated at the June 10 council meeting. The mayor said the city will host a community reception in June to thank James Abbey for his service and welcome Ewell.

No legal challenge or pending recount was mentioned during the briefing. The mayor framed the close result as evidence of active civic participation and called on residents to engage in upcoming city events and meetings.