Police Commissioner Jim Duncan's message about the board of commissioner's successful fiscal policies and delivering of services and programs over the past three years was apparently received by the voters. The electorate returned him to office for another three-year term, giving him 897 votes, while his opponent, John Maura, Jr., received 754.

Both candidates ran "intense" campaigns this year, leading one observer to comment that it resembled the New Hampshire primary. Some speculate that the PBA's (Policemen's Benevolent Association) endorsement of John Maura, Jr., at a time when the PBA contract is being negotiated, backfired on him, making some believe he would "owe" them once he was elected.

In a post-win interview, Duncan had the following to say:

"I wish to thank the Port Washington electorate for their support and confidence in re-electing me for a second term as a Port Washington Police District Commissioner. The board of commissioners have been working extremely well together for the common good of our community with plans for the new millennium to improve such things as child safety, quality of life, and better police-community relations. I extend to each and every person in our community a very safe and happy holiday."

Due for the most part to her excellent track record as an environmentalist protecting natural resources, notably being at the forefront of the successful crusade against the incinerator that had been proposed at one time on the Morewood property site, Ellen Markowski cruised to a victory over her two opponents in this year's election for water commissioner. Ms. Markowski garnered 752 votes, while her opponents Peter Meyer and Bob Tarleton received 500 and 68 respectively.

She will replace Betty Forquer, who stepped down after 18 years of service.

When asked to comment on her victory, Ms. Markowski said, "I want to thank everyone who came out in such miserable weather, during a very busy, holiday season to support me. It's gratifying to know that our community recognizes the important issues facing the water district. Concluding, she said, I'm looking forward to serving as commissioner."

Most considered this campaign intense, with signs all over town, many ads and letters to the editor for Ms. Markowski and Mr. Meyer.

Mr. Meyer raised the bar on political campaign signage by placing one on a barge in the bay that was lit up at night. This drew mixed reviews. Some admired this ingenuity, however, others, especially some boaters, thought it set a bad precedent for what they considered visual "pollution."