Incumbent Mike Nelson secured his fourth term as Carrboro mayor Tuesday with a landslide victory over challenger Stacy Smith, according to unofficial election results.
Nelson said he believes his experience in local politics was the key factor in his victory. "I think my record of working hard for Carrboro for eight years was the contributing factor," Nelson said. "I think people respect honesty and standing up for what you believe in."
But even in defeat, Smith chose to highlight the positive aspects of her campaign. "I've gotten great responses for someone who had no prior name recognition," she said. "I've learned more about this town than I've ever learned before."
Smith also said she is pleased with her decision to run against Nelson because she became involved in the political process and provided opposition.
"We should have opposed elections," she said. "It forces people to get out there and present themselves."
Nelson, running in his fourth mayoral election, said he was prepared for the vigors of another campaign.
The candidates said the campaign was fairly quiet, with both candidates running on similar platforms that highlighted growth-management issues and environmental protection concerns. "There was no backstabbing," Smith said. "No folks were attacking other folks."
Both candidates also said the positive atmosphere surrounding the race made it more enjoyable. "I've had a good time with (Nelson)," Smith said. "He was a very nice candidate. We both shared a lot of the same values."
Nelson added that he became impressed with Smith's knowledge of the issues by the end of the race. "She ran on the issues," he said.
Smith said her candidacy for mayor has encouraged her to become more involved in Carrboro. "I've learned of several issues I'm interested in," she said.
As for Nelson, he said the first item on his agenda is sleep. He will be inaugurated Dec. 11.
Staff writers Kristen Heflin and Colin Sutker contributed to this article.
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