VIDALIA — Vidalia voters ousted their 24-year mayor in favor of a candidate making his first foray into local politics.

In unofficial results, challenger Buz Craft took 54 percent of the election, carrying 1,025 to incumbent Mayor Hyram Copeland’s 885 votes, or 46 percent.

Approximately 57 percent of Vidalia’s eligible voters cast ballots in the election.

“I am very excited to get the opportunity to serve our town,” Craft said. “I had faith in the people, and they showed up. With them putting their trust in me, I am going to do my best to do what I said I would.”

A businessman and former banker, Craft ran his campaign as a referendum on the proposed Square on Carter project, a proposal for the city to borrow up to $7 million to purchase and improve 65 acres of land near the western end of town in an effort to woo developers.

The state attorney general’s office eventually released an opinion that the project was not allowed by the state constitution, but not before the idea had received months of critique and open criticism from residents and even state officials.

Craft also pushed tighter controls on city spending.

“I think people showed that they were very disappointed in the things that were going on in our town,” Craft said.

“The first thing I will do is have an audit done by (the) legislative auditor so we can see where our town stands and who we owe, so we can have these departments start working on a budget that is realistic and start moving forward and managing money, setting up accounting controls.”

Craft said he wanted to thank the voters for their support.

“Our town turned out, and I felt like I ran a clean campaign, and the people showed me their appreciation by selecting me, so we are going to get to work.”

Copeland could not be reached by phone for comment after the election, but posted a message to his campaign Facebook page Saturday evening.

“I want to thank the citizens of Vidalia for allowing me to serve them over the years. Nothing has made me prouder than serving as your Mayor. I’m extremely proud of the growth and progress our town has experienced over the years, and I am proud of all of you for being part of it.

“I will always be committed to my home, Vidalia, no matter my position.

“I would like to thank every single person who used their voice, their vote, to express confidence in me. I truly appreciate it.

“I want to thank my family, my friends, city employees and all the volunteers who have stood by my side throughout this campaign. I›m a life long public servant, and I will continue to serve you in any way I can.

“Thank you Vidalia.”

Copeland was first elected mayor in 1992, and had previously served as a city alderman from 1976 until his election as mayor.

Craft will take office July 1.