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DOWAGIAC, Mich.-- Dowagiac voters have chosen a new mayor for the first time in nearly three decades.

Patrick Bakeman won the race Tuesday night with 81 percent of the vote, defeating longtime incumbent Don Lyons.

Bakeman says his campaign’s success came from a simple message of change.

“I think there comes a certain point in society where people want fresh ideas and new beginnings,” Bakeman said. “I think that’s what this is.”

Bakeman, a lifelong Dowagiac resident whose family has lived in the city for over 100 years, credits his upbringing and customer service background for helping him connect with voters.

“I am them,” he said. “They see me like I see them, as a friend."

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