By TARYN FITSIK, NEWS10 Staff

NORTH ADAMS, Ma. - It's one of the biggest political shake-ups in decades for the city of North Adams; Mayor John Barrett III has been ousted after 26 years in office.

Barrett, Massachusetts' longest-serving mayor, was soundly defeated by City Councilman Richard Alcombright with a 58% voter turnout.

There was mixed reaction on the streets of North Adams as a new political chapter begins.

"Over 26 years you influence a lot of people, and you get people moving," says long-time resident Rick Moon. "That's what he's done."

Moon says he's seen Mayor Barrett's influence in the city, like the expansion of the public library.

"He definitely made sure when the renovations started over five years ago that this was going to be his legacy," says Moon.

Also parts of Barrett's legacy are major improvements to downtown and renovations to the Mohawk Theater, which dates back to the 1930's.

However, a new leader will soon take the reigns.

"He seems to be a person with good ideas," Al Ell of North Adams said of Alcombright.  "I'd like to see some changes here in North Adams."

Alcombright defeated Barrett by almost 900 votes and says it was great to see the excitement the election generated in the city.

"The good thing about a strong mayoral election is it brought out stronger council candidates and it really motivated this community in a way it hasn't been motivated in years," the newly-elected Mayor said.

Alcombright says his first priority will be creating a strong economic development plan, but ultimately bring some change to a city he's called home his whole life.

"I thought it was the right time for me, the right time for the community," says Alcombright. "A new way, a new direction, new leadership."

"It's going to be an interesting time for North Adams," says Moon. "But I think we're going to be pretty good with the foundation that was set by the mayor."

NEWS10 called the Mayor Barrett's office numerous times Wednesday, but was told he would not comment at the time.

Richard Alcombright will officially take office in January.