NEW ULM — For the first time in 16 years, New Ulm’s third ward will have a new councilor as Tom Schmitz was elected Tuesday night with 1,201 votes.

Schmitz defeated Heath Dobberpuhl, who had 663 votes. There were five write-ins.

“I’m humbled by all the voter and citizen support,” Schmitz said. “I am eager to represent everyone in Ward 3, on the New Ulm city council. I view New Ulm as the best small town in America and look forward to being a part of assisting with its bright future.”

Schmitz, who grew up in St. Peter, finished up 18 years as the New Ulm Park and Recreation Director in 2023. He previously stated employers and keeping employees working in New Ulm was the city’s top issue and said his first goal was to “assist the city in continuing its budget balancing and financial stability.”

Dobberpuhl is an educator of 25 years, 15 of them spent as a science instructor in New Ulm at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, is currently in his third year as a science professor at Martin Luther College. Dobberpuhl previously stated that the city’s top issue centered around housing.

Les Schultz, the current Ward 3 city councilor, chose not to seek reelection for the council seat back in June, opening up the race for Ward 3. Schultz is the longest-serving active councilor on the New Ulm City Council. He was first elected in 2008.

In the uncontested Ward 1, David Christian finished with 1,391 votes. There were 14 write-in votes.

For the uncontested council member-at large, Andrea Boettger finished with 6,107 votes. There were 159 write-ins.

Schmitz will officially join the council on Jan. 7.