It's the start of a new chapter in local politics for Rochester City Councilman Chayse Thompson, who, after 11 years as a City Council member, will be switching seats to sit with the Fulton County Commissioners.

Thompson, a Republican candidate, was elected in November to serve Fulton County Council's District 3 and was sworn in to his position on January 1. The change is something Thompson said he hopes will not only help his career, but also allow him to help more people in the community. 

During the Rochester City Council's final meeting of the year on December 27, Rochester Mayor Ted Denton said farewell to Thompson with a formal letter of recognition for his dedication. Although Thompson was unable to attend his last meeting as a Rochester City Council member due to illness, Mayor Denton still  included him in the meeting by presenting his letter via phone call.