He's Back: England tops Hubbard in New Albany mayor's race

By ERIC SCOTT CAMPBELL
Eric.Campbell@newsandtribune.com

Doug England completed his historic return to the New Albany mayor’s office Tuesday night, taking 52 percent of the vote, and 21 of 34 precincts, against Republican and former sheriff Randy Hubbard.

England, the mayor from 1991 until his defeat in 1999, will enjoy more Democratic Party strength than in his previous terms. Voters retained an 8-1 City Council majority for Democrats and re-elected Democratic City Clerk Marcey Wisman.

The clerk during England’s terms, Republican Regina Overton, unseated him in his previous bid for a third term, something England this year frequently called an instructive experience. Now, he’s loading up “a full plate” of issues.

“We’re going to do housing renovation, code enforcement, new streets, more industries, downtown redevelopment and riverfront development,” England said. “I will work very hard and diligently for the betterment of New Albany.”

Hubbard kept the margin closer than any other mayoral finale in 24 years, but that was no consolation.

“They felt he was a better candidate,” Hubbard said of England. “I don’t know what else I can say. ... What’s meant to be is meant to be.”

Read more online at the New Albany Tribune.