CARMEL — For the first time in 28 years, Carmel voters have elected a new mayor.
Republican Sue Finkam was elected mayor in Tuesday election. She will take over the seat left by current mayor Jim Brainard, who served seven terms.
Finkam, a current Carmel City Councilor, defeated Democratic challenger Miles Nelson, who is also a Carmel Councilor.
"Obviously we have big shoes to fill but I'm a different kind of leader with a different kind of vision. I think we proved all along that we want to build on what he's done, not replace what he's done," Finkam said on her win.
FULL ELECTION RESULTS | Indiana Election Results
Finkam's top priorities include crime prevention and development throughout the campaign.
"Unfortunately, Indianapolis has an out of control crime problem and we're seeing increases across the board here in Carmel, causing increased expenses, increased risk for our population, not only our residents, but also those who are city employees," Finkam said. "We're also talking about smart development, making sure that we really listen to our community about what they want with the community moving forward, protecting affordable places that we already have in, in the community."
Finkam earned 57% of the vote on Tuesday.
