In an election, getting 49.947 percent of the vote is really close to a majority -- but not quite there.

Cary Town Council member Jennifer Robinson is now facing a runoff in her District A re-election bid after getting just three votes shy of 50 percent.

Robinson pulled in 1,886 votes while her nearest competitor, Lori Bush, received 1,599 votes.

Now, the two are gearing up for what could be a contentious runoff.

"Because there were four people in the race, it would have been very challenging for any candidate to pull a clear majority," Robinson said. "The fact that we came as close as we did is fantastic."

Robinson is facing her most outspoken challenger, who has gone on the attack in recent weeks.

Bush says Robinson is too pro-growth, and says financial contributions from developers support her claim.

"It's important for citizens to know who they're voting for, where they stand, how they voted and where's the money coming that's behind their election," Bush said.

Robinson says those numbers are being distorted and she has never let a donor dictate how she votes anyway.

"I have a clear record of being pro-citizen and balanced growth and doing things for Western Cary and Downtown Cary that are good for the community," Robinson said.

The argument highlights an issue that's central to almost every Cary election; and this runoff is certainly no different.

"What people care about is growth, roads, schools," Bush said.

Robinson says she doesn't feel the need to go on the attack, while Bush says her opponent's record is "fair game."

The two will face off in a candidates forum next Tuesday at Cary Town Hall; residents are welcome to submit questions through the Town of Cary at cary@ncvotered.com.

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