Engen poised to receive 5th term as Missoula mayor

MISSOULA, Mont. — Mayor John Engen appears to have secured enough votes to win a 5th term as mayor of Missoula.

Engen would be the first five-term mayor after defeating challenger Jacob Elder.

Mayor John Engen told NBC Montana challenger Jacob Elder called him to offer congratulations for his apparent victory.

He has served as Missoula’s mayor for the past 16 years. Another four year term would put him at the helm of the city of Missoula for two decades.

Engen ran his campaign on the message that he has been a steady leader during a tumultuous time.

Engen says that as Missoula continues to grow, efforts need to be made to secure affordable housing, assist with Missoula’s homeless population and support what makes Missoula a desirable place to live.

Elder ran a campaign based on change.

Elder claimed that the mayor has been mismanaging the city's budget and changes were needed to right the ship.

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