Barkhouse statement on District 3 vote count At a meeting of all District 3 candidates Tuesday morning, HRM election officials explained that some of the results had been entered into the overall totals in error during the count Saturday night and Sunday morning. They presented new numbers showing that Bill Karsten has won. The difference between our vote totals is large enough that I offer Bill Karsten my congratulations on his victory. However, the exact number of votes is still in question because my official agent and I noticed discrepancies even today. It does no justice to the voters of District 3 or to the reputation of the democratic process in Halifax Regional Municipality if a counting process so flawed is not challenged. I have the option until Oct. 30, 2012, to request a judicial recount in District 3 but have not done so because Municipal Clerk and Chief Returning Officer Cathy Mellett has told me that she is “actively pursuing” permission from Council to ask for a recount. I hope that Council will follow the advice of the head of its election staff to pursue a judicial recount so residents of District 3 can be assured that their votes have been counted accurately. The last three days have been an emotional roller coaster for me and my family that has left me physically exhausted. As a result, I will let this statement stand as my comment on the 2012 HRM municipal election. I’m going to spend some time with my family and maybe take my first vacation in four years. Again, I want to thank all the people who have supported me throughout the campaign that just ended. Win or lose, you have been there for me. It has been an uplifting and at the same time humbling experience to have served you. Thank you all. Jackie Barkhouse