DAYTON-Incumbent Dayton Mayor Zac Weatherford received a strong show of community backing in last week's primary elections for city mayor, with a 66 percent support vote.

Weatherford garnered 504 of the 759 preliminary votes cast with Mayor Pro-Tem Delphine Bailey receiving 168 votes, or 22 percent.

Both Bailey and Weatherford earned spots on the November general election ballot.

Third candidate, city council member Michael Paris, received 10 percent support with 82 votes and has been eliminated. There were five write-in candidates.

Weatherford, who was appointed mayor in May, following the resignation of Mayor Craig George, was thankful for strong community support but expressed concern at the low voter turnout.

"I would like to stress the importance of being an informed voter and turning in your ballots. This next year will come with lots of changes in City Hall, with the hiring of a new planning director, a new mayor and at least one new council member. Please everyone vote," he urged.

Weatherford said that, during his campaign, he has been informed of citizen concerns that he plans to address while finishing out his term as mayor.

"Even though change doesn't happen overnight, I am continuously working on projects to help improve our community," Weatherford said.

Bailey echoed the need for the public to be informed and involved.

"If you have questions or concerns about the way the City operates, I encourage you to attend council meetings which are on the second Wednesday of every month at City Hall, at 6 p.m.," Bailey said.