In this small Alberta town, the mayor was elected by a margin of one lonely vote

If you ever needed proof that every vote counts, look no further than the town of Elk Point in east-central Alberta.

After a recount of votes cast for the community's next mayor in Monday's municipal election, Parrish Tung beat Terri Hampson by a single vote.

"On Monday, I believe my count at that time was 235, while Terri's count was 231, which is close enough," Tung said.

"Of course she asked for a recount because the vote is that close."

Once the recount was completed on Wednesday, the results were even closer.

With 233 votes to Hampson's 232, "Parrish Tung retains his position as mayor-elect," the town said in a notice posted to its website.

Tung was breathing easier after that.

"Somebody, unfortunately, has to lose," he said.

Despite the close outcome, Hampson is taking it well.

"When I saw the number I was like, 'Are you kidding me?' " she said. "It's been a little bit of a roller-coaster ride; obviously a lot of emotions, but I always say democracy is not always easy." 

Hampson can't help but to look back at her campaign and wonder if she could have done something to swing the outcome in her favour.

"We could have all worked harder for sure, we could have knocked on one more door, we could have passed out one more brochure," she said.

"But I'm very proud of how we ran it and the people involved on my team."

Both Hampson and Tung say they are glad the contest didn't end in a draw.