In a major upset, Independent candidate, Marvin Fete defeated incumbent Michael C. Johnson to become the next New Philadelphia Law Director. Fete carried 51.85 percent of the vote to Johnson’s 48.15 percent. Johnson was first elected to the office in 1987.

Fete praised his rival for his years of service. “I want to first thank Mike Johnson for almost a quarter of a century in public service to our community. That kind of effort deserves our sincere gratitude.” Fete said.

Fete attributed his win to hard work, “It is very difficult to run as an Independent, and even harder to beat a long-term incumbent. I knocked on over 5,000 doors since May, and I think it paid off. I did everything I could to try and speak with every voter personally. I firmly believe elected office is something you have to earn.”

Fete also thanked his family for their support. “I want to thank my wife Louisa, and my infant son, Buddy Heath, for their love and support through this entire process. I could not have done this without them.

“I also want to give a special thanks to my father, Marvin ‘Bud’ Fete. For over 40 years, his work as an educator in our community established a legacy of helping others that I try to emulate to this day. He also drove me around every day for the past two months, so that I could get through the entire city at least twice in my door to door efforts,” he added.

Fete pledged that his first act would be to try and reduce spending. “I am going to do exactly what I promised, and save tax payer dollars by prosecuting cases myself in the municipal court.”

Fete said he felt humbled by the election. “It is always humbling when people entrust you with the tremendous responsibility of public office. I am grateful to those who supported me, and to those who did not, I will work hard to earn their respect,” Fete said.