INGALLS — Will McWain is new to Ingalls, but the small south Madison County town has made quite an impression.
So much so, he wanted to play a larger role in its future.
On Sunday, Madison County Republican Party chairman Russ Willis swore in McWain as the newest member of Ingalls Town Council.
“I really like the town and want to do my part to help see it grow,” McWain said, prior to his initial meeting as a councilman on Monday, Aug. 24. “It’s a great town to live in. I’ve seen good things, and I want to continue that momentum.”
McWain, 27, said he and his wife, Kaylee, have lived in Ingalls for just a couple of years.
He is originally from Fort Wayne and is manager at PNC Bank in McCordsville. He’s a graduate of Heartland Baptist Bible College in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, earning a degree in theology.
“He has a good perspective of what the town board member should do,” Willis said of McWain. “He had a high interest level, and he’ll bring a fresh perspective to the board.
“He’s been a resident (of Ingalls) for two years and wants to get involved in the community.”
Willis appointed McWain to fill the spot vacated by long-time councilman Tim Green, who resigned in July.
A councilman for 30 years and a former president of the board, Green said he had differences with town attorney, Gregg Morelock, as well as how the town has handled some billing and collection procedures, among other issues.
With Ingalls having only one precinct, Willis, as the chairman of the party with which Green is affiliated, chooses the successor.
Willis said four others expressed interest in the position.
McWain will serve out the remainder of Green’s term, which expires at the end of 2022.
The new councilman said it was too early to tell whether he would run for office after serving the rest of Green’s time.
“I’m not opposed (to running in the future), but let’s see how this term goes,” McWain said. “I’m just glad to be involved in town government.”
Ingalls has a five-member town council. McWain will join President Scot Lawyer, Vice President Georgia Parker and council members Teresa Egerton and Melanie Johnson.
“I’m excited to get to know him and begin to work with him,” Lawyer said. “It’s good to get involvement from people that are new to the community. As we continue to grow, that becomes more and more important.”