Editor's note: This story has been updated on April 3 at 10:14 a.m. to reflect Russell Rice's statement
Matthew Peacock defeated opponent electrician Russell Rice for the Norman City Council Ward 2 seat Tuesday evening.
Of the 1,978 votes cast, 51.57% voted for Peacock and 48.43% for Rice, according to unofficial results from the Oklahoma State Election Board.
In a statement to OU Daily, Peacock wrote he was proud of the work his team put in and for the clean race they ran.
“I am ready to get back to doing work for this city, and I will honor my commitment to collaborate with all sides, even those that disagree with me,” Peacock wrote.
Peacock said he looks forward to working with Rice as he continues to serve Norman.
Peacock is currently the council member for Ward 8 and owner of architecture and design firm Peacock Design, LLC. Due to redistricting laws Peacock's residency changed from Ward 8 to Ward 2, resulting in his bid for the Ward 2 seat.
His campaign focused on addressing homelessness, affordable housing, creating and supporting current mental health and substance abuse programs, as well as harm reduction. He also addressed improving transportation and walkability in Norman.
In a statement to OU Daily, Rice wrote that he has enjoyed the last 5 months of getting to know his Ward 2 neighbors and hearing their concerns and ideas to improve Norman.
"Although we didn’t get the victory, I will continue to fight for the rights of the homeless, the poor, and the working class of Norman, voices that frequently go unheard in all echelons of government," Russell wrote. "I look forward to working with councilmember Peacock as a citizen to ensure he represents us well."
Peacock will be sworn into office on July 2.
This story was edited by Peggy Dodd and Ismael Lele. Sophie Hemker, Kylie Caldwell and Nikkie Aisha copy edited this story.
