OXFORD — Only six votes separated three of the five candidates vying for two open seats on the Board of Selectmen during annual town elections Tuesday.

Incumbent Scott Hunter was re-elected to another term, with 300 votes, while Samantha Hewey received 367 votes and claimed the second open seat.

Dana Dillingham, in his third bid for a seat, garnered 298 votes, followed by political-newcomers James Bowden, with 294 votes, and Shawn Morse, 89 votes.

There were four write-in votes.

“I’m very pleased with the numbers and how the election turned out,” Hewey said. “Now the real hard work begins, it’s getting more people involved and more people interested. And congratulations to Scott. It really is one vote. The closeness is amazing to see. This is why we need more people involved.”

Veteran Selectmen Pete Laverdiere decided not to seek re-election to another term.

Dillingham said Tuesday night he expects to ask for a recount.

Hunter congratulated Hewey on her win, saying she did “an awesome job” and that he is looking forward to continuing to work for the town.

In response to a possible recount, Hunter said, “I hope the numbers will remain.”

Voters also returned Trustee Penny Lowe to Oxford Water District board, with 683 votes, and Gary Smith to the School Administrative District 17 board, with 695 votes.

ldixon@sunmediagroup.net

Oxford selectman candidate Samantha Hewey, who won election Tuesday to the board, shakes a voter’s hand as the voter enters the Public Safety Building in Oxford.