Paul Russell edged out incumbent Vice President Pansy Thomas in the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Council election on Jan. 9.

A long-time council member, Russell received 130 votes. Thomas, formerly council secretary, received 125 votes.

Sandra Pattea had 76 votes in a race for vice president and Robin Russell received 28.

Ruben Balderas returns to the tribal council, winning the race for the seat vacated by Russell. Balderas, who formerly served as council president, received 117 votes.

Others competing for the council seat included: Derrick Jones (55), Kent Smith, Sr. (52), Imogene Hosay (47), Candace Doka (43) and Yvonne Davis (40).

Verlene Enos received 243 votes to win the job as Tribal Secretary. Lavina McLevain received 113 votes. Incumbent Selena Castaneda did not run.

The council seats are four-year terms. The make-up of the council for the next two years has President Bernadine Burnette, Vice President Paul Russell, Treasurer Pamela Mott, Council Members Ruben Balderas and Gerald Doka and Secretary Verlene Enos.