Sarah Howard likely will join Andy Diaz as the two newcomers on the Peoria Public Schools Board of Education.
Updated unofficial results from the Peoria County Election Commission show Howard with an 86-vote advantage over Doug Shannon in the non-partisan race for the District Three seat being vacated by Larry Ivory. Howard’s lead on Election Night was 44 votes.
In a statement to WCBU, Howard chose not to declare victory yet, despite Shannon publicly congratulating her in a social media post.
“I appreciate that Doug graciously reached out and we had a good conversation [Monday]. For my part, there are still ballots left to be counted, so I will wait until the electoral process has run its course,” said Howard.
Shannon wrote that trends following Election Day will not be enough to reverse the outcome.
“At this time, I am letting everyone know that I will not challenge, and will honor, the final totals once certified,” he said.
“Elections are about ideas and framing those ideas. My focus throughout the campaign was about positively framing what I believe would be best for the students, staff, and the city of Peoria.”
Diaz won his race against David Daye for the District Two opening created by Lynne Costic’s departure, receiving more than 59% of the vote.
