Randall Walker wins another term as Perry mayor, defeating challenger Christopher Smith

Walker earned just over 54 percent of the vote and says his next term will focus on infrastructure, housing and economic expansion in Perry.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Randall Walker has been re-elected as mayor of Perry after defeating challenger Chris Smith in Tuesday’s election.

Walker received 1,949 votes, or 54.30 percent, while Smith earned 1,640 votes, or 45.70 percent.

Walker campaigned on continuing infrastructure and economic growth projects across the city. In an interview ahead of the election, he told 41NBC’s Taylor Gilchrist one of his proudest accomplishments was securing $9 million in grants to improve local housing.

“We’ve built homes completely,” Walker said. “We’ve gone in and had houses renovated and made those much more livable. Because in many cases, they were substandard.”

Walker also spoke about the upcoming East Perry Water Treatment Facility and the newly opened Jack Link’s plant as major steps toward future expansion.

“It will allow us to continue to expand here in Perry, not only housing and a residential element, but industry,” he said.

Smith, a seven-year Army veteran and Perry native, campaigned on slowing the city’s rapid growth and emphasizing fiscal responsibility.

“I’m very tight with my own money,” Smith said. “And I feel like the government should be that way with other people’s money as well.”

41NBC News will have more coverage and reaction from local elections across Middle Georgia Tuesday night at 11.