Former Executive Councilor Dave Wheeler took a step toward returning to the council Tuesday, winning the GOP primary for the District 5 seat.
The Milford Republican defeated Steve Hattamer of Hollis.
Wheeler served on the council for one term, but lost his bid for re-election to Democrat Deb Pignatelli in 2012.
Pignatelli chose not to seek another term.
Wheeler will face Nashua Alderman Diane Sheehan, who defeated Jennifer Daler in the Democratic primary.
In the race for the District 4 seat, Robert Burns of Manchester won the Republican nomination, defeating Jim Adams of Pittsfield.
This sets up a rematch between Burns and incumbent Democrat Chris Pappas, who faced off for the seat in 2012.
