WINTON – Murfreesboro will have a new mayor.

Political newcomer Lynn Johnson defeated incumbent mayor Ben McLean in Tuesday’s municipal election, according to unofficial returns.

“There has been a very positive response from the community,” Johnson said. “I chose to run a positive campaign.”

Johnson worked with other political newcomers during the campaign and their efforts paid off. Out of 635 votes cast in the election, Johnson garnered 366 votes and McLean finished with 239 votes.

“We are all good listeners,” Johnson added.

Two new members will be joining Johnson on the Town Council. Sarah Wallace and Gloria Odum won seats on the town’s governing board, giving the council three female members.

Longtime Council member Bill Theodorakis and incumbent William Stephens won re-election while Lloyd Hill, who was appointed by the Council to fill a vacant seat earlier this year, won his first political contest.

Wallace led all vote-getters for Town Council with 453 votes; Stephens was second with 411; Odum finished third with 303, Theodorakis had 249 and Hill secured the final spot with 237.

“The council needs to hear all voices,” Wallace said.

The political challengers and their supporters campaigned across from the Murfree Center during Tuesday’s election. These candidates stressed the need to keep the community informed and involved.

Incumbents Wayne Brown and William Parker lost their seats on the Council. Brown finished with 232 votes, Josey Blowe had 192, Parker had 173, Jennifer Hodge received 158, and Andrew Bunch rounded out the field with 142.

There were eight write in votes for the Town Council.

The votes become official next week when the Hertford County Board of Elections conducts their mandated canvass.