Miller trails Viall in Chelan County treasurer race

Chelan County Treasurer candidate Rick Viall.

Chelan County Treasurer candidate Doug Miller.

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CHELAN COUNTY — Initial results for the Nov. 3 General Election indicate Richard (Rick) Viall leading the Chelan County treasurer race.

As of 8:33 p.m. Tuesday, Viall holds 52.29% of the votes (12,785 votes), compared with Doug Miller’s 47.64% (11,646 votes).

Viall finished the Aug. 4 primary five percentage points ahead of Miller, receiving nearly 1,200 more votes.

The Chelan County Treasurer’s Office is responsible for efficient and reliable handling of all funds for a county that manages between $76 million and $101 million, depending on the time of year. Records are maintained for over 56,000 tax and assessment accounts, according to the office. The elected candidate will serve a four-year term as Treasurer, succeeding current treasurer David Griffiths.

Viall is a wealth advisor and business owner focused on fiduciary financial stewardship, compliance, and financial management. According to his voter profile, he is a past president of the Wenatchee Valley College Foundation.

Viall told Ward Media he was both grateful for and encouraged by initial voter support.

“The role of custodian of public funds carries tremendous responsibility, and if the results hold, I would be humbled by the opportunity to serve our community,” said Viall.

Viall commended the knowledge and dedication of the treasurer’s office staff and Griffiths, as well as the public service of his opponent.

“The City of Wenatchee is fortunate to have [Doug Miller] as a council member. If the results ultimately favor Doug, Chelan County would be well served by him,” said Viall.

As a 50 year resident of the valley, Miller has served as a Wenatchee School District board member, Wenatchee City Council member, and county fire commissioner, according to his profile.

“I appreciate everything the voters shared about their public finances as the campaign unfolded,” Miller told Ward Media. 

With more ballots left to be counted, Miller said he was still hoping for a shot at the lead.

The next updated count is expected 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media