NORWICH – Democrat James J. McNeil has been declared the unofficial victor in Tuesday’s closely-contested ward supervisor race against his repeat challenger for the seat, Republican Scott M. Sutton.

McNeil held on to his seat in 2007 in an even closer race with Sutton, in which the final results weren’t computed until a week later, 411 votes to 495.

This time around, that gap grew slightly with McNeil receiving 413 votes to Sutton’s 296.

“I’m overwhelmed with the outcome and the support that the residents of Wards 1, 2 and 3 have given me. I feel they have a lot of confidence in me and I’m deeply humbled by that,” said McNeil Tuesday night, thanking the support of voters, family and friends.

Just like in 2007, the race was one of the most closely contested in the Norwich area, with the candidates campaigning door to door in the wards, attending public events and through paid advertising.

Sutton released a written statement Wednesday morning which began: “To those who voted for me and supported me along the way, I extend my deepest appreciation and gratitude. Thank you. You are the voices who hope for a better tomorrow.”