WAYNESVILLE — Incumbent Ernie Lawson defeated two challengers Tuesday, leaving no doubt that he is the mayor as voters rejected Charles Sanders' comeback effort.

        Mr. Lawson received 484 votes. Mr. Sanders, the former mayor, received 143 votes and Councilman Earl Isaacs 239 in unofficial returns.

        Mr. Lawson, appointed in January, now takes the unexpired mayor's term that ends Dec. 31, 2003.

        Mr. Sanders was attempting to recapture the mayor's office even though voters recalled him in November 2000.

        He left office Nov. 21. He was turned out mainly over controversy about his allegation that local police used racial profiling, a charge they denied.

        During the campaign, Mr. Isaacs stressed property rights and rejuvenation of the village economy.

        Mr. Lawson said he has the contacts and knowledge to encourage development of an industrial park and other projects.

        Mr. Sanders claimed he was the legitimate mayor of the village, considering that the voters elected him and did not yet elect the appointed mayor, Mr. Lawson.

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