Sweet trails Kowalkowski in mayoral race

DAVENPORT—Incumbent mayor Brad Sweet was losing his bid for re-election to a local School District employee who said in May he didn’t want the job after first election returns Tuesday, Nov. 7.

J.J. Kowalkowski narrowly led the 8-year incumbent 142 votes to 126 Tuesday night.

Kowalkowski, who works grounds and maintenance with Brian Telford at the School District, said after filing week in May he intended to withdraw from the race. But he appeared on the ballot regardless due to withdrawal rules, and had the advantage to be the elected mayor after the first count.

After further conversation Wed...