PORTSMOUTH — Despite a late write-in campaign for the position of clerk, the only two candidates whose names appeared on the ballot won seats in the Portsmouth Water and Fire District’s annual election of officers Wednesday.

Incumbent Philip T. Driscoll received 102 votes to retain his position of clerk for a three-year term.

Mr. Driscoll faced a late challenge from a familiar face, however: Daniela Abbott, who received 42 votes as a write-in candidate.

It was the second time in three days that Mr. Driscoll and Ms. Abbott squared for the same position. Both had applied for membership on the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission and on Monday, the Town Council voted 4-3 to appoint Mr. Driscoll over Ms. Abbott. 

Gary Gump received two write-in voters for clerk, while another voter wrote “Not Phil” on his or her ballot.

Andrew V. Kelly received 105 votes to win a three-year term as water commissioner. 

Ms. Abbott also received five write-in votes for commissioner. There were other write-in votes for Mr. Driscoll (two), as well as Bob Kittredge, “Judy” Staven and David Gleason (one apiece). 

Two ballot-casters wrote in “Mickey Mouse” for water commissioner.

1 percent turnout

As usual wih District elections, turnout was meager. 

There were 156 total ballots cast, according to the District. With 13,345 eligible voters, that represents a turnout of just over 1 percent.