Mark Kleinschmidt will take over the helm of Chapel Hill from outgoing mayor Kevin Foy, who is rumored to be considering a run for the Democratic nomination to challenge Sen. Richard Burr.

It is fascinating, however, to note that Kleinschmidt beat fellow councilman Matt Czajkowski by just 3 points: 49 to 46. That represents a serious challenge to the liberal status quo, which Kleinschmidt represents. Czajkowski was backed by folks considered pro-business. He will remain on the town council.

Why was Czajkowski’s run so credible? Concerns that Chapel Hill’s anti-business policies have come home to roost. Surrounding counties have responded to consumer demand for more retail establishments, including so-called big-box stores. Thus, the business-friendly communities reap the tax revenue that goes along with those stores. Meantime, Chapel Hill watches from the sidelines.

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