J. J. Wilbur will remain a busy man.

Wilbur, who serves on the La Conner school board and as a Skagit County Fire District 13 commissioner and chairs the Swinomish Tribal Community Port Commission, was re-elected to the 11-member Swinomish Senate in Sunday balloting.

Wilbur survived a strong challenge from Cathi Bassford, a tribal housing and utility board member and elder programs supporter who has served as Swinomish kitchen manager for nearly 20 years, serving special event meals for community dinners, funerals, canoe journeys and holiday luncheons.

The vote tally was 180-135 in Wilbur's favor.

"My hands go up to the people for entrusting me to serve the Swinomish community for another term," Wilbur said Monday. Once again, I am truly humbled."

Bassford was gracious in defeat, offering congratulations to Wilbur as well as to incumbent senator Barb James, who ran unopposed this election cycle.

"I would like to say, 'thank you,' to my family and friends for their support during this election," Bassford said. "The results weren't in my favor but that does not change who I am. I will continue to serve my people as I always have and always will."

Wilbur ran on the record he established over the past five years plus a set of evolving goals including increased housing and services for tribal elders and further economic development on the reservation.

"I am thankful to be part of a senate that put community first in the uncertain times of COVID-19," he said in a statement prepared for Qyuuqs, the monthly Swinomish magazine. "In the beginning we met daily to establish food distribution, testing, vaccine clinics, rental assistance, COVID pay, unemployment assistance for fishermen, fuel discounts, COVID relief checks and guidelines to keep our community safe."

Wilbur also alluded to creation in 2019 of the Swinomish Port Authority and receipt of an $11 million grant to expand the tribal fishing fleet. He said he has prioritized employment opportunities for tribal members.

"Tribal member employment has increased," he noted. "At the mid-year General Council, you asked for a pipeline from scholarship to employment. I heard you. Workforce development is a goal."

James, whose tribal work has focused on youth and family services, has also been involved in budget and personnel matters during her senate tenure.

"Working with youth throughout the years in cultural, traditional and social events has been a pleasure," James said. "They are our future and it's been my pleasure to work, teach and listen to their hopes and dreams for the future."

Members of the Swinomish Tribal Senate serve for five-year terms. Seats held by Brian Wilbur and Eric Day will be up for election in 2024.