JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Voters in Stutsman County braved the cold and snow Wednesday to cast their ballots during the 2018 General Election.

Whether it was the state measures or statewide and local races, turnout was high. The state experienced a 56.7% voter turnout statewide. Stutsman County reports that 8,446 unofficially voted, which is roughly 75% of the county voting population.

Compared to previous General Elections, 7,847 ballots were received in 2014 and 10,312 in 2016.

There was a tight race in the county commissioner race, with two new faces being elected unofficially. Denny Ova received the most votes, followed closely by Steve Cichos and Ramone Gumke. Because there was such a small vote difference between Gumke and next closest candidates Mark McPherson and Craig Neys, an automatic recount has been announced.

In the Sheriff race, Chad Kaiser was elected to his third term with a majority vote, topping opponent Elizabeth Kapp.

The 911 Fee Increase for Stutsman County was narrowly approved, receiving just 52% of the votes. The measure will increase the phone bills for residents in Stutsman County, which will then be used to maintain all emergency equipment at the Stutsman County Law Enforcement Center.