Carroll County put the 2008 election behind it with one or two surprises, along with familiar faces in some of the same places for the next four years. In the end, there was little fanfare after the votes were tallied and most candidates left their party headquarters by 9 p.m.

The race for county council at-large was watched closely by all waiting for election results in the county clerks office. Incumbent Republican Carl Abbott prevailed as did newcomers, Republican Scott Ayres and Democrat Marion Huffer.

"I'm anxious about winning," Ayres told the Comet by telephone after he was announced as one new council member. "I very much look forward to tackling the issues."

"I wasn't surprised that I won exactly," he continued. "I am happy that the citizens of Carroll County have put their trust in me."

Ayres said the history of the county could not be changed, but he expected progress in a forward direction from this time forth.

Incumbent Republican Barb Chapman was bested by rival Democrat Mary Ann Burton for county recorder.

Burton was animated about her victory at the polls after they closed.

"All the hard work over the last eight months has paid off," she said. "I'm anxious and exhausted."

Burton said many friends, supporters and volunteers worked to bring her campaign to a winning conclusion.

"I do feel good about this," she said. "I'm ready to serve the people and give them everything they deserve in the recorder's office."