Aledo voters elect a new council member to finish a term after a death

Melanie Allen, a resident of Parker County for nearly two decades, won the Aledo special election March 31 for city council place 4, beating out two other candidates.

Allen won over 61% of the vote with 92 votes, according to unofficial election results. Jessica Dobbins came in second with 51 votes. Kip Dernovich came in third with seven votes. The majority of voters who cast ballots for Allen and Dobbins did so during the early voting period.

Mayor Shane Davis thanked all the candidates for their efforts and willingness to serve the city in a Facebook post Tuesday.

“Congratulations Melanie Allen, may you serve with integrity and do great work for the City of Aledo,” Davis wrote.

Allen is the assistant vice president and business development officer for PlainsCapital Bank, according to her Linkdeln. Allen is also an executive board member of the United Way of Parker County. She completed six years as an executive board member of the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce until 2024.

Allen previously told the Star-Telegram she is focused on “smart, responsible growth, maintaining our small-town character, supporting local businesses, and strengthening communication between the city and its residents.”

“I’ve seen firsthand what makes it so special,” she said of Aledo. “I want to help protect and strengthen that as we continue to grow.”