Mauldin Mayor Terry Merritt was unopposed in his quest for a new term. He will take office in January to begin his second term. In Simpsonville, Mayor Paul Shewmaker had to compete in a three-way race to retain his seat. Garnering more than 50% of the vote Shewmaker was re-elected and will serve another four years at helm in Simpsonville. GP McLeer ran unopposed in Fountain Inn and was re-elected to his second term.

In other council races: Fountain Inn councilman Mack Blackstone defeated challenger Bill Smith in Fountain Inn’s only contested race for Ward 6. Jay Thomason Ward 2 and Phil Clemmer Ward 4 retained their seats.

Council members and Mayor will be sworn in on Dec. 1st.

In  Mauldin, Mark Steenback ran unopposed for the open council seat 6 and was elected despite a late write-in campaign by former councilman Dale Black.  Micheal Reynolds and Carol King were elected without opposition.■