Franklin will have a new mayor and two new council members.
In the General Election, held Nov. 4, Councilman Stacy Guffey, who opted to run for mayor instead of trying to keep his seat on town council, won his race against political newcomer and business owner Matthew Holland, coming away with a total of 333 (59.04%) votes. During a Sept. 25 forum hosted by Forward Franklin, Guffey touted his experience in public service, even going as far as to designation “politician.”
“I’m going to lean into it and own that word,” he said.
There were three seats open for council. Voters could make three selections out of the seven names on the ballot.
The top vote getter was Jeff Berry with 313 votes. Berry owns rental houses, which he noted were rent controlled, meaning his tenants will never see an increase in rent once the initial lease is signed, something that’s rare in the region. He also has a background in accounting and is a trustee for a local cemetery.
Next was incumbent Rita Salain, who received 297 votes. Also earning a seat on council was Travis Higdon with 283 votes.
Like in many municipalities, turnout in Franklin far exceeded the 2023 elections. Where 522 ballots were cast that year, there were 907 this year.
Results are considered unofficial until county boards of elections certify them on Nov. 14, 2025.