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Smithfield council appoints John Ingler to fill midterm vacancy after interviewing 19 applicants
Summary
After interviewing 19 applicants for a midterm vacancy, the Smithfield City Council voted unanimously Oct. 15 to appoint John Ingler to fill the seat through Dec. 31, 2027; the council then administered the oath of office and sworn him in.
The Smithfield City Council on Oct. 15 appointed John Ingler to fill a midterm council vacancy after a series of five-minute interviews with candidates.
Mayor Monson opened the interviews, saying the city received 19 applicants after two people withdrew. The applicants outlined priorities including infrastructure, water, sidewalks and managing growth. After the interview period, a council member moved to appoint John Michael Engler (referred to in the roll call as John Ingler); the motion was seconded and the council voted unanimously to confirm him. Council members Wade, Sue, Jen and Todd recorded yes votes.
The council immediately administered the oath of office. The mayor swore Ingler in before the meeting moved to adjourn.
Why it matters: The addition fills the seat through Dec. 31, 2027, and gives the council another voting member as Smithfield continues work on its general plan and several infrastructure items raised repeatedly by candidates. Candidates’ remarks highlighted continuing local concerns about water, sidewalks, and balancing growth with the city’s small‑town character.
Candidate themes and a sample quote: Many applicants emphasized infrastructure and community engagement. Chris Wilston Hume, a local business owner and Ph.D. in biochemistry, said, “I love this valley,” summarizing his pledge to focus on quality-of-life measures. Several candidates highlighted water and sidewalk needs; one former fire chief said ensuring infrastructure before approving new growth was a priority for public safety.
What happens next: The newly appointed member was sworn in and will serve until Dec. 31, 2027, completing the appointment process required by state law. The council did not indicate any immediate committee assignments at the swearing-in; those are expected to be set in subsequent meetings.
