Washougal Mayoral Race: Coursey Concedes, Coston Declares Victory

Washougal, WA — The Washougal mayoral race came to an end today as City Councilman, Dan Coursey, conceded the race to Molly Coston.

By this afternoon, Coston had received 1,574 votes (54.39%) and Coursey received 1,230 votes (42.5%). Paul Godin, a write-in candidate, received 90 votes (3.11 %).

“As most people probably know I have been trailing in this race since election night, said Coursey. “Currently there is a 344 vote difference and we probably won’t be able to cover that with the few ballots left to count.”

“I have called Molly Coston and congratulated her as Washougal’s new Mayor. It was a hard-fought campaign on both sides, but I look forward to working with Molly, and for great things to happen here in Washougal under her leadership. Washougal is a great place and there will be opportunities to make things better in the future. I will cheer our new City Mayor on and help as best as I am able.”

Coston will be sworn in on January 1 at City Hall.

“I am honored to be the voter’s choice for Mayor in Washougal,” said Coston. “I’m already working to become more informed, going through the 2018 budget, and have scheduled meetings with department heads and Mayor Guard. I’ll work hard to keep the trust and respect of council and staff throughout the new year, and reach out to collaborate with local agencies.”

On election night, Coston said she will also work to combat the homeless problem in Washougal.

“I really am honored that enough people voted for me — since I’m a newcomer,” said Julie Russell, who also won a Washougal City Council seat. “I’ll work with those who have been elected. We all have the same goals to support Washougal. Let’s work together to form a good relationship.”

Russell said she and Coston, as well as other newly elected officials, will start training for newly elected officials on December 2 in Vancouver.

Molly Coston, left, with friends and volunteers at her election night party.