Recount confirms Simonsen's re-election

Salt Lake City Councilman Soren Simonsen has held on to his District 7 seat by a mere 12 votes.

Results of a recount requested by Simonsen's opponent, Lisa Adams, were released at noon Friday during a special meeting of the City Council.

In the end, Simonsen received 1,947 votes to Adams' 1,935.

"I'm excited to keep working," said Simonsen, who had a 13-vote edge prior to the recount. "This has been a great experience the last four years, and I'm happy to have some more."

Although Adams called into question his leadership style, Simonsen said he will continue to work for his Sugar House neighborhood.

"I recognize that council members don't always agree," he said. "I will continue to be an advocate for District 7, even if that means I have to be outspoken a little bit, or disagree."

Adams, who did not attend Friday's meeting, said in a written statement that she called Simonsen to congratulate him on a "hard-fought victory," and wished him well "as he continues to represent District 7."

"I want to thank all those who supported me with time, effort, contributions and encouragement," she said. "This has been an incredible experience, and I am very proud of the campaign we ran."

Though disappointed by her loss, Adams continues to hope for a police precinct to be installed in District 7, as well as improvements to Fairmont Park.

"I didn't run just for show," she said.

City Council Chairman Carlton Christensen commended both candidates for their professional and courteous campaigning.

— Rebecca Palmer