Toms River has a new mayor for the first time in 12 years. Republican Mo Hill narrowly defeated Democrat Jonathan Petro.

Hill won with 50.47% of the vote to Petro’s 49.27%, according to the Ocean County Board of Elections.

Hill will replace current Toms River Mayor Tom Kelaher, who is retiring at the end of the year. 

Hill said that his political experience made him the best man for the job.

“I've got the experience and ability to lead this town forward in a positive direction,” he said Tuesday prior to the election results coming in.

Hill has served on the Toms River Town Council for over 15 years.