By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Alabaster’s City Council will be a mix of returning and new faces for the next four years, after the city’s voters cast their ballots in the Aug. 23 municipal elections.

Incumbents Russell Bedsole and Sophie Martin were re-elected to their seats for another four years, while newcomers Rick Ellis, Greg Farrell and Kerri Pate will be serving their first terms on the City Council beginning in November.

In Ward 1, Martin soundly defeated challenger Lee Cunningham, earning about 84 percent of the vote.

“I’m truly grateful for everyone’s support, and for everyone who took the time to vote today,” Martin said. “I look forward to four more years of progress in the city, and I will continue to work hard for Ward 1 and for the city.”

In the Ward 2 race, Ellis defeated challenger Matt Penhale, earning 245 votes to Penhale’s 123 votes. Ward 2 incumbent Bob Hicks did not seek another term.

“I’m looking forward to being able to work with the other council members,” Ellis said. “Moving forward, I really want to get acclimated and go to some of the work sessions before we get sworn in.

“I was surprised by the outcome. Matt ran a good race, and he’s a really nice guy,” Ellis said. “He will do great things in the future.”

Incumbent Ward 3 City Councilwoman Stacy Rakestraw did not face opposition in the election, and will serve another four-year term.

In the Ward 4 race, Farrell defeated incumbent Rick Walters by a vote of 306-272.

“I’m ready to get to work now,” Farrell said. “I’m looking forward to getting my hands around the task at hand and try to look at numbers and see where the city stands. That way, I can gauge the things I want to propose and move forward from there.”

In Ward 5, Bedsole defeated challenger Jamia Alexander-Williams 349-270.

“I think the work we were able to do over the last four years, the voters recognized that. For that, I’m pleased,” Bedsole said. “I must give congratulations, even in the loss, to my opponent, Jamia. She did a great job running a great, clean campaign, and it’s something we can be proud of in the city of Alabaster.

“I appreciate the voters entrusting me with another four years, and I am looking forward to serving,” Bedsole added.

Incumbent Ward 6 City Councilman Scott Brakefield faced no opposition in the election, and will serve for another four years.

In the Ward 7 race, Pate defeated challenger Eric Starling 446-135.

“It feels great. I’m so excited,” Pate said. “I think people saw how hard I worked while campaigning, and they know I will continue to work hard for them on the council. I can’t wait to get started.”