By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

Republican candidate for Ellis County Commission Butch Schlyer said he always believed he could win but was surprised he defeated incumbent Marcy McClelland in Tuesday’s primary election by more than 350 votes.

“I felt like I could win, but I didn’t think that I would win by that kind of margin,” Schlyer said Wednesday morning. “I think because of my experience and qualifications I always felt like I would win.”

McClelland said Tuesday after the results began rolling in that she was disappointed but, “I realize the fact that people are wanting change.”

She also acknowledged the lawsuit involving the county commission, herself and the developer of the Blue Sky Acres probably had an effect on the race.

But she said she does not have any regrets.

“I think it was a learning experience. I learned a lot,” McClelland said. “I’ve met a lot of people, I‘ve made a lot of friends, know a lot of people and have had the opportunity to serve with others and work with the county people.”

She said there will be challenges for the commission in the next year.

“I think that for the next year it will be a rough one,” McClelland said. “I think people are going to have to tighten their belts.”

Schlyer will now face Democrat Chris Rorabaugh and independent John Walz in the November general election.

He said he believes his experience will be a big factor in that race.

“I know I’m the most qualified candidate the voters will have … so I just have to get that point across,” Schlyer said.

The final results will be canvassed in Ellis County on Thursday, Aug. 16, at 5 p.m.