Incumbents in three contests win re-election; Padgett tops Spinney.

Byline: Susan Spencer

GRAFTON - It was a day for incumbents yesterday as candidates seeking re-election in three contests all retained their seats.

In the race for a three-year term on the Board of Selectmen, Brook A. Padgett, a 12-year veteran of the board, beat challenger and current Planning Board Chairman Bruce W. Spinney III, 1,002 to 778.

"It was a hard race," Mr. Padgett said. "I'm very grateful for all the support I got and I look forward to the next three years getting things done."

School Committee incumbents Peter R. Carlson and Kathleen C. Halloran, who serves as chairman, were re-elected to three-year terms with 1,051 and 1,039 votes, respectively.

Challenger Margaret S. McDonald received 779 votes.

Mr. Carlson was happy but weary after standing and holding a sign for 12 hours. He recently recovered from back surgery.

He said, "I'm very pleased and excited to be elected for another three years. I'd like to thank Maggie (McDonald) for her dedication to Grafton schools ... and I really look forward to the challenges that the Grafton School Committee faces."

"It's an exhausting process," agreed Ms. Halloran. "It's very humbling to meet people I didn't know, who came out to hold signs and help. It really drove home to me how much of an honor and a privilege it is."

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