The results from the election on the Big Island bore surprises when Kimo Alameda won over Mayor Mitch Roth with thousands of votes. Alameda will serve as the next mayor for the island.

HAWAII COUNTY, Hawaii (Island News) -- Launching a new era, local psychologist Dr. Kimo Alameda is victorious this week in the Hawaii Island mayoral race.

Alameda unseated Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth, securing approximately 51% percent of the vote to Roth's 44%.

"I think the momentum we've created and the enthusiasm for change has been incredible," Alameda told Island News.

Born and raised on the Big Island, Alameda grew up on a ranch in Waiakea Uka.

The 54-year-old holds degrees from local schools and a doctorate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

He worked in public health and led the island's fentanyl task force.

Many wonder, what could the change potentially mean for those who grew up in Hilo?

Amy Kalili , UH Hilo Director of University Relations told Island News, "This is more for me and my personal response to that question, just being someone who had the privilege and opportunity, to grow up here in Hilo, a Hilo girl—Kimo and his longstanding relationships with this community, I think sometimes for us, those is these rural places, those relationships are very important."

"I look forward to leaning into that and alongside the chancellor at UH Hilo—looking into more of that relationship building, and what those opportunities might represent, knowing some of the things, Kimo leaned into, during his campaign process. That resonates directly with the work Hilo has that we have before us, as it relates to workforce development and economic resiliency. I'm looking forward to those opportunities," added Kalili.

Alameda's been very complementary of Roth, his campaign, along with his supporters.

This marks Alameda's first time ever running for office.