The winning candidates in the Aug. 8 Democratic primary for Ypsilanti City Council included S.A. Trudy Swanson for Ward 1, Bill Nickels for Ward 2 and Brian Robb for Ward 3.

The candidates tried to give their own input on specific issues they felt were the most important for Ypsilanti.

Swanson said she focused on transportation in Ypsilanti as her main component. She said that the city income tax was another major issue.

"I feel I defeated my opponents because of a few different things," Swanson said. "I've been working in the office since 1995. I know about the city's financial state and its main issues."

Swanson said she wants to encourage the bus transportation system to make it a regional mileage system so there will be no financial burden.

Another issue she said concerned her was children hanging out on Harriet Street, otherwise known as "the gateway," and the south side of the city.

"The major issue confronting Ypsilanti is the financial problem and its future," Nickels said. "The projections for the 2007-08 year are grim."

Nickels has worked on the council for eight years and said he feels that he has more experience with the residents of Ypsilanti than his opponents.

"I believe I've worked with more residents," Nickels said. "I've heard about and dealt with issues such as paving problems and residential parking."

"I've made the necessary adjustments and worked hand and hand with the residents," he added.

Both Nickels and Swanson said they feel hopeful about their November election.