Lantigua Concedes Lawrence Mayoral Race

Lawrence's election of a new mayor is now settled.

The incumbent, William Lantigua, said Monday evening he won't challenge a decision that his opponent, City Councilor Daniel Rivera, is the winner.

Lantigua made the announcement on a local Spanish-language radio station after losing a recount to Rivera over the weekend.

Lantigua said he had reason to challenge the recount, citing dozens of votes from people he claims do not live in the city. But he said he has to put the city first.

"It's time to heal the wounds," Lantigua said in Spanish. "It's time to give Mr. Rivera an opportunity to continue the good work of municipal government that we have proudly carried out here in Lawrence."

The unofficial results of the Nov. 5 election had Rivera ahead by 58 votes, and Saturday's recount had Rivera up by 81 votes.