PORTLAND, Ore. -- The small Oregon town of Sodaville on Thursday swore in its new mayor, a convicted felon.

KGW-TV

Sodaville Mayor Thomas Brady Harrington

Thomas Brady Harrington told KGW he deserves a chance to lead the town despite a criminal past that includes arrests for methamphetamine possession, assault and DUI.

Harrington had just completed probation before he was elected.

Sodaville residents discussed recalling Harrington shortly after his election, once knowledge of his felony convictions came to light.

 More: Residents upset over mayor's criminal past

Some voters said they were confused with the ballot and they believed at the time they were casting votes for Harrington’s father, also named Thomas Harrington.

Sodaville, a small town southeast of Albany, has a population of about 300 and faces serious budget and water supply problems.