Ironton attorney Randy Lambert is the Republicans’ choice to serve on the county board of elections filling the vacancy that occurred when Carl Lilly declined to seek another term.

Lambert was the nomination for the post by one vote beating out Mary Wipert 25 to 24 in a meeting of the Republican Central Committee Tuesday night in the chambers of Common Pleas Judge Charles Cooper. Harriet Scragg was the third person seeking the job, pulling in 19 votes.

“I am very pleased the party has put its confidence in me,” Lambert said. “I will do my best to live up to that confidence.”

Wipert held the post of director of the board of elections for more than 20 years and had been selected by her party four years ago to serve on the board. However, then Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner would not allow Wipert to be seated.

Wipert ran on her record of experience telling the committee her years as director gave her the necessary knowledge of election law and procedure.

“I would be one of two who would have a voice for the Republican party,” Wipert said. “I also know what the Secretary of State demands of you and have knowledge of what they want. People of Lawrence County should hold the board of elections to a high esteem.”

Scragg, who is chair of the central committee, ran on her record as a strong party member and campaigner for Republican candidates. She tried for a board seat in 2010 when longtime board member Bob Griffith did not seek another term. Scragg lost to Freddie Hayes by four votes with the final tally 28 to 24.

“I have served the election process for more than 47 years,” Scragg said in her campaign speech. “I have had years of direct contact with voters and that has provided me with a good understanding of what people want. I have led the central committee for many years. Most of you in this room, I have helped get you elected.”

Lambert campaigned on his experience as a lawyer and his work representing other boards of elections.

“I can bring that type of experience,” he said. “There are many legal issues to come before the board. We need an attorney on the board of elections. I will help our party defend our party.”

Lambert’s nomination will go to Jon Husted, Ohio’s secretary of state, for his approval.