By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG -- Ogdensburg City Councilor Wayne Ashley, who will replace outgoing longtime Mayor William Nelson Jan. 1, says he is ready to lead the city into a new era.

Ashley won the election against former St. Lawrence County Legislator Vernon ‘Sam’ Burns 1,233 to 741, according to unofficial results.

Ashley thanked his supporters who stood by him in the wake of criticism over robocalls and late filing allegations that riddled the race.

“I want to thank the voters and citizens of Ogdensburg for their continued faith and support. I am honored in the support they have shown me by turning out to vote,” he said.

Ashley says he is ready to take lead the city into a new era, with the bipartisan board. That includes two new members, Republican David Price and Democrat Travis Davis.

Ashley says he ran his campaign based on the accomplishments he has already helped make as a city councilor and plans to continue moving the city forward with help from city staff.

He said waterfront development and getting the city’s blighted vacant properties back on the tax rolls are top priorities.

“Hitting every street and knocking on all those doors I was amazed at the condition and quality of housing. I think it’s something we need to address,” he said.

Ashley said he spent most of the morning cleaning up campaign signs, but still had more to do. As mayor Ashley says his door will always be open and he encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I want people to know they can bring their issues to me directly,” he said.

Ashley says he intends to keep tax increases to a minimum as well, noting that this year’s preliminary budget is expected to increase by 1.5 percent.

Ashley wasn’t the only candidate celebrating victory last night.

In a five-way race for three city council seats, Republican David Price has a 10-vote lead over Democrat incumbent Jennifer Stevenson. Their totals are 1,188 and 1,178. Democrat Tim Davis trails with 1,052 votes, Republican James Amo with 988 and Democrat James McCoy with 594.

Two of the seats are currently held by William Hosmer, who did not seek re-election, and Ashley. The third belongs to Stevenson, who according to unofficial results, will remain on the council.