Scott Hines Comes Out Winner After Recount

Ira Laufer called off a hand recount today for a third seat on the Rancho Mirage City Council after results showed his opponent had gained an additional lead.

The recount gave Scott Hines a 14-vote lead over Laufer, who had requested the recount last week when his opponent’s margin of victory was 11 votes.

Scott Hines received 1,795 votes to Laufer’s 1,784 in the April 13 election to fill three council seats.

“I’m just really ready to get sworn in and get to the business of the city council,” Hines said.

Incumbents Dana Hobart and Ron Meepos were easily re-elected, with Hobart topping the seven-candidate field with 2,902 votes. Meepos received 2,710 votes.