The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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    Piepho 11/5

November 5, 2008

Piepho to replace Wortel

By Dan Linehan

MANKATO — Challenger Mark Piepho narrowly defeated six-year incumbent Katy Wortel in the Blue Earth County Board’s 3rd District.

Piepho, a family business operator, took 53.45 percent, or 3,973 votes. Wortel took 46.02 percent, or 3,421 votes.

“We had a good campaign and we stressed the positive, and people like that,” Piepho said.

Wortel conceded at about 9:20 p.m.

“I was preparing myself for either way,” she said. “He knows how to run a campaign.”

The 3rd District rings around Mankato, including a few neighborhoods and other rural areas.

Piepho is a free-market supporter who argued during the election that his experience as a legislator, volunteer and business owner would help the county weather tough economic times.

Wortel asked for a second full term by saying she is an expert on the environment and alternative energy but is also knowledgeable about other parts of a commissioner’s work.

Wortel came to the County Board after a 2002 election that was the result of redistricting. She narrowly kept her seat after a 2004 challenge, besting Ronald Kibble 2,970 votes to 2,930.

“The thing about it that’s the hardest is that you feel like you let down your supporters,” Wortel said.

Piepho was defeated by Kathy Sheran in a 2006 state Senate race.

He improved on his showing in the primary when he was bested by Wortel 470 votes to 426.

Piepho spent $4,738.58 on his campaign, mostly on printing and sign costs, and Wortel spent $1,500.73, according to reports filed with the county. Those totals are only good through Oct. 24, as spending reports after that date aren’t due until after the election.

In an uncontested Blue Earth County Board race, Kip Bruender easily sailed to re-election in District 5.

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