Sara Bagheri defeats Greg Johnson; Hawkins avoids recall

Jynn Schubert and Julia Falcon | Staff Writers

Incumbent Greg Johnson lost his spot on the Denton City Council while incumbent Joey Hawkins survived a recall election to keep his seat.

Sara Bagheri, Johnson’s challenger, ran a tight race. She won the place 6 spot with a 117-vote cushion.

“For me personally, it’s a victory,” Johnson said. “I get my family back and I get my business back.”

Hawkins’ recall vote went overwhelmingly in his’ favor, with about 71 percent of residents supporting him.

“The past seven months have been an ass kicking,” Hawkins said in his tearful victory speech Saturday night. “I’m so glad it’s over.”

Incumbent Denton city council member Greg Johnson talks with supporters at a results watching party at the Best Western Premier on Brinker Road in Denton. Dylan Nadwodny | Staff Photographer

Sara Bagheri could not be reached for comment.

Incumbent Dalton Gregory will keep his place 5 seat. Gregory could not be reached for comment.

Deborah Armintor was the closest behind Gregory in final results, with about 32 percent.

“I’m not giving up yet, there is still 50 percent of the town not satisfied with the status quo,” Armintor said. “I will still be involved with city council and attend meetings, and I would run again. For a five person race, we held great forums together and I would like to thank all of them.”