The results were stark: Cervenik had 65 percent of the Euclid vote after nearly two-thirds of the precincts results had come in last night. The fiercely contested race pitted Cervenik against his one time friend Council President Ed Gudenas in a race that observers had said was too hard to predict. But, in the end Cervenik prevailed.
During his victory speech, Mayor Bill Cervenik said the large margin sends a message to voters and residents alike:
Bill Cervenik: That message is this: That we are a great city. A phenomenal place to live. A great place to raise your family. But damn it we all gotta work together.
Around the corner from Cervenik's headquarters, Ed Gudenas chalked up his loss to recent stories in The Plain Dealer about the uninhabitable condition of his Euclid property and his questionable business practices. He ultimately conceded the race, but implored Cervenik to provide clear vision for the city.
Ed Gudenas: We certainly support Mayor Cervenik and hope that his plans and goals for the city work, but there's a big group of residents that are very disappointed.
Looking dejected, Gudenas said he wants to work more on his business and doesn't plan to seek another seat on council after his term ends next year.
Tasha Flournoy, 90.3.