Mettile, MacKenzie advance in Ashland mayoral race

David Mettile and Matthew MacKenzie will advance to the April general election for Ashland mayor.

Unofficial results from Tuesday’s primary election show Mettile received 224 votes and MacKenzie received 304 votes. Richard J. Pufall received 85 votes and Charles Ortman received 218 votes, not enough to advance.

Current mayor Debra Lewis is not seeking re-election.

Dick Pufall is running for re-election to the city council, facing incumbent councilor Jackie Moore in the 7th district as a result of redistricting. The city’s other contested council race, in the 5th district, features Pat Kinney and Laura Graf.

The April 5 ballot will also include an advisory referendum asking voters if they want to change the state’s marijuana laws.