Craig Waddell

HOUGHTON — Houghton residents elected a new city council member Tuesday, headlining a light May election slate in the Copper Country.

Craig Waddell was narrowly elected to a partial term Tuesday, edging out Robyn Johnson 272-262. Michael Salmi also received 106 votes. The position vacated by former Councilor Dan Salo is up for election again in November.

Waddell thanked voters and said he wanted to work with the council on acting on ideas that are coming forward from residents.

“That’s the way I go into it, being open-minded, being respectful of the things the councilors say, but listening to the folks who put us there to begin with,” he said.

Waddell said the city should improve “push communication,” getting information out to people through the city’s email list and walk-and-talks to gather feedback from residents.

“I fully intend to communicate with people and the media about what I see going on, what I think is important, and share that with residents,” he said.

Waddell was scheduled to be sworn in before Wednesday’s budget session.

By a 43-35 vote, Calumet residents approved a measure calling for the treasurer position to be nominated by the village president and approved by a majority of the village council. The position had previously been elected.

Lake Linden voters also approved the renewal of the emergency services millage. The 1.75-mill, five-year levy is estimated to raise $25,392.19 in 2022.