Rugby’s citizens haven’t had a contested mayoral election since 1990, but that will change this Tuesday, June 8.

And like 20 years ago, three candidates are vying for the four-year office.

Voters this week will choose between Dave Cichos, John Ford and Dennis Fred to take the reins from Dale Niewoehner, who did not seek a third term.

Cichos is retired and served as Rugby mayor from 1994 to 2002. He wants to hold the office again, citing economic development and strengthening health care services, as two keys for the future wellbeing of the city.

Ford is semi-retired and sees strong fiscal restraint; reducing the property tax burden; bringing better paying jobs to Rugby; and putting in place a candidate who represents all citizens as keys to moving the city forward.

Fred has been a business owner for the past several years, and after hearing concerns from a number of residents relating to the practices of city government, wanted to run to bring about change.

He also believes greater fiscal responsibility has to be put into practice and greater accountability is necessary.

Rugby election

In addition to the mayoral election, there will be elections for city council in all four wards.

Ward One features Neil Lotvedt and Gloria Vetsch running for the open seat; Ward Two has incumbent Dave Bednarz being challenged by Don Haman; Ward Three has incumbent Bill Hartl running against Jerry Harmel; and Ward Four has Arland Geiszler and Randy Malo seeking the open seat.

There are three openings on the Rugby Park Board, but just two candidates have filed – incumbent Rick Larson