VILLA PARK

Though residents narrowly approved council term limits, Bob Bell won back his seat for a third term. Bell captured 24.8% of the votes, followed by Robert E. McGowan, a former councilman and mayor, and contractor Russell Patterson, who will serve for the first time.

Bell, 64, a real estate broker, was first elected in 1990 and opposed term limits. He believes voters put him back in office because of his careful watch of city spending and dedication to preserving the Villa Park life style. McGowan, 62, a retired airline captain, had withdrawn his candidacy for personal reasons early in the race then decided to rejoin in late October. He has vowed to restore confidence in city government and promote volunteerism. Patterson, 53, also ran a campaign that focused on maintaining the city’s character. The three council members will be sworn in at the Nov. 24 meeting.