Columbia Falls City Council election uncontested

By HEIDI DESCH - Hungry Horse News

The Columbia Falls City Council election has turned into an uncontested race.

Challenger Kathie Lapcevic has withdrawn.

Lapcevic said she is currently looking for a new house and most of those that she is considering buying are just outside city limits.

Incumbents Don Barnhart, Julie Plevel and Doug Karper are all running for re-election.

Lapcevic said she's disappointed at dropping out because it causes an uncontested race.

"I'm trying to be responsible," Lapcevic said last week.

She noted she did not want to run and then be forced to resign from the council.

However, Lapcevic's name will still appear on the ballot, because her withdrawal came so late.

All three positions are four-year terms.

The city general election is Nov. 6.