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By Annie Bresee

Darby Durand Pippin has won the special election for the LaGrange City Council District 1 race, defeating competitor Forrest Johnson. Pippin received 1,456 in total compared to Johnson’s 1050. 

“I look forward to working with the other with the gentleman on council and I’m so excited about the city leadership in place and just look forward to being a part of it,” Durand said.  

Pippin will take office immediately. While she said the first objective is for the council to pass the budget, Pippin’s focus will be housing. 

“I think that is the background I bring to the council as some knowledge in that area. And I strongly believe that a safe, stable home is important for our youth and the future,” Pippin said.

The special election was held to fill the unexpired term of Jim Arrington, who resigned to run for Mayor, which he was elected to. 

Pippin is the co-founder and president of DanRic Homes. Johnson is a relationship banker at Bank of America. She is the granddaughter of longtime LaGrange mayor, Gardner Newman, her aunt was the longtime councilwoman, Kay Durand. 

Johnson is also a newcomer to politics. He works as a relationship banker at Bank of America and has previously worked in tourism for the city of LaGrange. Johnson also has a family history of public service; his father, Clark Johnson, was the county historian for many years.

“I want to congratulate Barby on her win and thank her for running an honest and fair race,” Johnson said. 

He plans to continue his involvement with his city.

“I hope an opportunity comes up for me to run for office again in the future. I still love this city and I am still dedicated to doing what I can to serve my community,” Johnson said.