The mood inside Carls Fargo Restaurant, 355 W. State St., was anxious.

Sycamore mayoral candidate Ken Mundy conversed with his close friends and family.

Suddenly, everyone grew silent. WLBK’s radio announcer said the words “election results.”

All eyes settled on the radio as the volume was turned louder. The announcer said results were not yet available.

Conversation resumed but at a more hushed tone.

“It never used to take this long,” Mundy said. “This is crazy.”

He left the room for five minutes but reappeared just minutes later.

“I just received a call from Mayor (John) Swedberg. He congratulated me – I won the election!” he exclaimed.

Amidst all the clapping and cheers, Mundy reflected on the victory he has pursued for the past 11 months.

“I ran on the platform of access, communication and service,” he said.

Now it is time to realize those goals, he said.

He recently retired after 30 years of working as a manager for NIU’s payroll department and will rescind his position as Sycamore’s treasurer after 24 years when he takes the office as mayor.

His first goal is to ensure a smooth transition into the position. He is looking to current city officials to help him, Mundy said.

He said he wants to instill confidence in Sycamore’s citizens, recognizing that 44 percent of voters did side with Swedberg, the incumbent. Mundy garnered just under 49 percent.

“Beyond [building a strong tax base] and job [creation], my goal is to have people living and working in the area,” he said.

This allows residents to spend time with their families and fosters a sense of investment in the city, he said.

Swedberg served one term and said he is thankful for those four years.

“Four years of being mayor of the city of Sycamore is the best job I’ve ever had,” he said.

Earl Gable, the third candidate, snagged 7 percent of the vote. Although he is disappointed in his first run for mayor, he was more concerned about voter turnout.

“I would be much more disappointed if people did not turn out to vote,” he said.