Jensen, 57, received 807 votes to the 561 that Rodriguez received, according to unofficial results from the North Carolina State Board of Elections.
“I look forward to serving our city for the next year and a half,’’ Jensen said. “This gives me great opportunity to finish working on the parks and recreation bond and to bring more jobs into our city.”
Moments after hearing the election results, Jensen was humbled, thanking her family, friends and everyone who has supported her over the last eight years.
Born and raised in Fayetteville, Jensen, her husband, Jerry, and their four children live in North Fayetteville, where she owns An Affair to Remember, a small business featuring prom, pageant and formal wear on Ramsey Street.
Rodriguez, 48, is a retired Army officer and former police officer. He said he ran for office because he sees Fayetteville heading in the wrong direction with crime, pollution and economic development.
“I closed the gap on the primary from 29% to 36%, but I am a little disappointed with the results,’’ he said. “Fayetteville isn’t ready for change.’’
He said part of the challenge was along political party lines.
“I’m proud of the effort that I put into this and look forward to seeing what happens next,’’ Rodriguez said. “I wish it had been different, but this is a very blue city and getting bluer by the day.”
Rodriguez said he was undecided if he would run again, but applauded the race as being a good one.