The First and Fifth Ward seats were up for grabs last Tuesday, but only the First Ward seat changed hands. A ceremony called "Passing The Torch" happened Monday night and both the City Council and the city of Columbia will see some changes soon.

After serving for nine years, current City Council member Almeta Crayton finishes up her term representing Columbia's First Ward this month. Crayton is known for her work helping people in the First Ward find jobs, encouraging new home construction in the area, and her work with local youth programs. New member Paul Sturtz will be taking her place.

Crayton said she is happy for Sturtz, but disappointed that her former supporters did not rally around her candidacy. Crayton also said she is still committed to helping out in the community. Sturtz said he has big plans for his new position.

"Almeta talked about racial divide in the city and how important it was to end it," said Sturtz. "And that's something I feel very passionate about, it's not just an extra issue in my mind, it is the central challenge we face as a city right now."

Sturtz will serve three years on the City Council.

Fifth Ward Council member Laura Nauser was also sworn in for her second term.