Evansville residents voted Tuesday in a decisive mayoral contest, electing Phil Gierke to replace interim Mayor Ernie Blackford. The election, part of the 2026 general ballot, also filled several town council seats, shaping the next two years of local governance.
Mayoral race results
Phil Gierke emerged as the clear winner over interim Mayor Ernie Blackford, who had been appointed in November 2025 after former Mayor Candace Machado resigned. Gierke, a former council member who retired in June 2025, campaigned on restoring stable leadership and advancing community projects that were delayed during the interim period.
Council seat outcomes
In the council race, longtime councilor Chad Edwards stepped down, creating a two‑year vacancy. Voters selected Wendy DeGroot to fill that term, awarding her 223 votes against challenger Marshall Hope’s 184.
Two regular‑term council seats were also on the ballot. Councilor Greg Flesvig chose to run for the Natrona County Board of Commissioners, and Councilor Alona Vigneault announced her retirement, leaving both seats open. Rhonda Stypa and Dale Shelden ran unopposed for the open positions, receiving 300 and 268 votes respectively.
Implications for Evansville
The new mayor and council members will inherit ongoing projects such as road improvements, water‑system upgrades, and community‑center enhancements that were prioritized by the previous administration. Gierke’s prior experience on the council is expected to facilitate a smooth transition and continuity in policy implementation.
Town officials emphasized that the election results reflect the community’s desire for steady, locally‑focused leadership. The council’s composition now includes a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, positioning Evansville to address both immediate infrastructure needs and longer‑term growth strategies.
Next steps
Election results remain unofficial until certified by Natrona County and state canvassing boards. Once certified, the newly elected mayor and councilors will be sworn in at the first town meeting in January, where they will set the agenda for the upcoming fiscal year.
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with town meetings and public forums to ensure their voices continue to shape Evansville’s future.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
