Scott Tremblay wins Port Richey mayoral race by 8 votes

PORT RICHEY, Fla. (FOX 13) - After months of political chaos and embarrassment, the city of Port Richey in Pasco County, Florida has a new mayor.

Scott Tremblay came out victorious with just eight more votes than runner-up Bill Colombo Tuesday night.

"I'm very happy and I'm very thankful," said Tremblay moments after learning the results.

Five candidates campaigned on the promise to bring back integrity to city hall after two mayors were recently forced to step down within weeks of each other.

Back In February, then-mayor Dale Massad was arrested and accused of practicing medicine without a license, and firing shots at the SWAT team when it raided his home.

Weeks later, Vice Mayor Terry Rowe took over, but was arrested shortly after. According to the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Rowe conspired with Massad against a Port Richey police officer.

"I just ask myself, ‘how did these people get elected time, and time again, when there's so much dysfunction,' said Linda Mueller, who showed up to vote Tuesday afternoon. "I think we have some new blood and energy in town and I feel good about it."

A total of 565 residents voted in the special mayoral election. Tremblay, who narrowly came out on top, says he's ready to tidy up city hall.

"I'm really looking forward to doing all the best I can for all the people," said Tremblay.