Board president ousted in District 26

Cary Elementary District 26's school board underwent changes Tuesday with newcomer Chris Spoerl winning election and board President Craig Loew losing his bid.

Loew received 1,288 votes, according to unofficial results. Incumbents Chris Jenner, Julie Jette and David Ruelle garnered 1,495, 1,512 and 1,407 votes respectively, according to unofficial results. Spoerl, an accountant who also is a board critic, received 1,477 votes.

He said his pledge to balance the budget pushed his campaign over the top.

Loew said, "It was a privilege to serve, and I wish those who were re-elected the best of luck." Ruelle has put strong emphasis on ensuring every student succeeds academically. Jenner has led the charge to cut spending by using a zero-base budget model.

The school district also lost a bid Tuesday to raise taxes by borrowing $17 million.