SACRAMENTO — Sacramento broke barriers of its own, installing the city's first black mayor who campaigned on a promise of improving public safety at a time when local governments are feeling financial pain.

Former NBA All-Star Kevin Johnson defeated two-term incumbent Heather Fargo by campaigning on a theme of change. Johnson, a political novice before taking the helm of his hometown, aligned himself close to the achievements of Barack Obama, the nation's first black president.

"Sacramento also made history today in electing its first black mayor," the former Phoenix Suns point guard told supporters during his victory speech Tuesday night. "Both Obama and myself, we ran on a promise and the theme of change. No more business as usual."

Johnson's victory — 58 percent to 42 percent — affirmed the city's craving for something decidedly flashier. During Fargo's tenure, she embraced slow and steady progress in California's capital city, where many workers are employed by state government.

Johnson, 42, said he had a 50-member transition team ready to go as he inherits a $58 million city deficit. He pledged to end a "tired, bureaucratic, uninspired, unresponsive" City Hall.

Johnson will take office despite a campaign in which he was haunted by old ghosts, including allegations of sexual abuse with a minor and an ongoing federal investigation that he misused AmeriCorps grants to engage in political activities, run personal errands and even wash his car.

A few blocks away, a tearful Fargo congratulated Johnson on his win and did not want to contemplate her future after two decades of public service.

"I feel very strongly about this city ... and I think I've served it well," Fargo told a crowd of subdued supporters.

During the campaign, Johnson called in basketball stars such as Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley and Magic Johnson to stump for him. The Johnson campaign also out-fundraised Fargo and touts campaign contributions from billionaire investor Warren Buffett.

Johnson's call for change resonated with voters like Richard Jackson, 56, who said he cast his ballot for Johnson because the community needs more attractions.

"We want something like L.A. or San Francisco so things are going on all night," he said.

Associated Press writer Garance Burke also contributed to this report.