Michelle Nelson Wins Flossmoor Mayoral Race

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Flossmoor mayoral candidate Michelle Nelson has defeated candidate Lakshmi Emory in the historic Flossmoor election.

Current Village President Paul Braun is stepping down as mayor. Candidates Lakshmi Emory and Michelle Nelson both ran to become the first female mayor of Flossmoor. Polls closed at 7 p.m. Tuesday and the Cook County Clerk's Office shows that of all nine precincts reported, Nelson pulled 57.94 percent of the vote, while Emory scored 42.06 percent. About 2,813 ballots were cast in Flossmoor's mayoral race, and Nelson has won by just 446 votes.

"It is an honor to be elected to lead Flossmoor, as we look forward to celebrating our 100-year anniversary," Nelson told Patch. "I’m looking forward to introducing Flossmoor to business owners and welcoming families looking to put down roots in our community."

For trustee in Flossmoor, three seats were up for grabs. Incumbents Joni Bradley, Brian Driscoll and candidate Gary Daggett have captured the slots, leaving challenger David Walano behind. Here is the vote totals for the race:

• Joni Bradley-Scott: 27.67%
• Brian Driscoll: 28.86%
• Gary Daggett : 28.86%
• David Walano: 14.62%

George Lofton sought to be elected for a two-year unexpired term as trustee. Lofton's appointment fills a vacancy following the resignation of former Trustee Gyata Kimmons. A board vacancy is filled by a mayoral appointment pending an affirmative vote by the Board of Trustees. Lofton has no opponents, and was ultimately elected Tuesday evening.

The polls in Suburban Cook County opened at 6 a.m. Tuesday and remained so until 7 p.m.

Check back for updates throughout the evening!