By DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Voters on South Padre Island went to the polls this week to decide two key City Council seats, returning one familiar face to office and setting up a close outcome in another race.
In the Council Member Place 1 race, Ken Medders Jr. won re-election with a commanding 60.61% of the vote (540 votes), defeating challenger Joe Praster, who received 39.39% (351 votes).
Medders, a longtime Island resident and advocate for responsible growth and tourism balance, will continue his service on the council, where he has been known for his attention to infrastructure and local business support.
In the Council Member Place 2 race, Aarin Hartwell leads with 49.11% of the vote (441 votes), followed by Kerry Schwartz with 41.09% (369 votes) and Esteban Flores with 9.8% (88 votes).
Hartwell, who has been active in environmental and community initiatives on the Island, fell just short of an outright majority. Depending on the city’s election rules and certification, results may determine whether a runoff will be required to secure the seat.
Both contests drew steady voter turnout from South Padre Island residents, reflecting continued community engagement in shaping local leadership and priorities.
Official results will be certified by election authorities in the coming days.