November 3, 2009 Worcester mayoral, District One races Play video

(NECN: Jennifer Eagan, Worcester, Mass.) - While voters in Worcester turned in their ballots, the city's four mayoral candidates made last minute pleas for votes.

It was shaping up as a tight race between former school committee member Joe O'Brien, City Councilor At-Large Kate Toomey and incumbent Mayor Konnie Lukes.

Mayoral candidate Emmanuel Tsitsilianos also stumped for support throughout the city Tuesday morning.

Otuside the mayor's race, former Worcester firefighter Joe Casello was trying to the second time to unseat District One City Councilor Joff Smith.

Casello failed in 2007, but promises if he is elected, he would hold city government accountable and reach out to his constituents.

"That's one of the biggest complaints I've had walking through the district, those questions and concerns that weren't being answered," Casello said.

"There are hundreds of constituents throughout the district I've helped with concerns, whether it's something small like getting their tree trimmed or major like getting sidewalk re-surfaced," Casello said.

District One likely features the most heated matchup outside the mayoral race. Smith, who has served two terms on the City Council, said he is confident that he will be ushering in number three.

"The voters will come to the realization we need someone with experience and someone who will stand up for taxpayer, not special interest looking forward to the same response as two years ago,"

"We've done our due diligence," Casello said. "Now up to the people to decide."