In an election that is proving to be just as close as expected, incumbent Idar Slothaug and Leon Thomas , who has served for 12 years as commissioner for Hansville Fire District 14, were only a few hundred votes apart in a race that may not be decided for days until all the absentee ballots arrive in the mail.

Slothaug was a bit surprised at the votes so far. He was out this evening rallying for last minute votes at Kountry Korners.

“Now it’s up to the voters,” he said. “I’ve done all that I can do. I am still hopeful and confident.”

Thomas who was awaiting returns with friends at his home in Hansville said he wasn’t sure how confident to be about his early evening lead. “I’ve got my hopes up. I feel really good about it.”

Slothaug believes the department should strike a balance between available tax dollars and the desires and needs of the community. During his tenure

Thomas played a key role in the fire districts’ merger and serves as president of the Washington Fire Commissioners Association.

Thomas plans to increase communications by issuing a newsletter and encouraging people to attend commissioner meetings.