The outcome of St. Paul’s town election is something of a puzzle.

Voters ousted embattled Mayor Jack Kiser, whose embarrassing shenanigans led to a special grand jury investigation. But the voters elected his slate of running mates – some of whom also face ethical questions stemming from their previous time in office.

Kiser’s nemesis, Vice Mayor Steve Stewart, also got the boot Tuesday. So did Town Councilman Jim Short, who was aligned with Stewart.

Perhaps town residents have simply tired of the ongoing tug-of-war between the factions in town government. Rather than attempting to determine which side was right, voters might just have opted to throw them all out of office. That’s an understandable reaction.

Now, the onus is on Kiser’s running mates to prove that they can work with all members of Town Council for the sake of St. Paul. It’s time to heal the rift.

Raymond Trent, one of the election winners and a former vice mayor, must take additional steps. He needs to fully answer questions about his business dealings with the town during his previous tenure on the Town Council.

At a minimum, Trent owes town residents a full explanation of any no-bid contracts between the town and his business. He also needs to explain the steps he plans to take during this term to avoid any such conflicts. Trent must not use his position to enrich himself or his relatives.

With the election in the past, it’s time for Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney Ron Elkins to make public the special grand jury findings. If they implicate current or former elected officials in wrongdoing, the people have a right to know.

St. Paul leaders have much work to do to mend their tattered public image. They need to start now.