Matt Purkey had a GOP candidate forum in March.
News Journal file photo
WILMINGTON — A new president of Wilmington City Council has been selected.
At a special meeting of the Clinton County Republican Party on Wednesday, the committee decided to appoint at-large Wilmington council member Matt Purkey to fill the position.
The role was previously filled by Mark McKay, who announced at the June 15 city council meeting he was resigning from council, effective June 30.
Terry Habermehl, the chair of the Clinton County Republican Party, told the News Journal that Purkey was chosen since he was already running and he was the only one who sought the nomination at the meeting.
“I’m happy for Mark (McKay) that’s he able to retire, and being president-elect, I’m to happy to get started early,” said Purkey.
To fill Purkey’s at-large seat, First Ward council member Jonathan McKay was chosen. Jonathan McKay was running for the at-large seats along with Jamie Knowles and David Nanstad. Habermehl advised all three had submitted their names to be chosen to fill the seat.
“I look forward to serving the residents of Wilmington in the capacity of the at-large position and continuing the great work the city is doing,” said McKay.
A candidate was not chosen yet for the First Ward seat. Habermehl told the News Journal that the selection is down to the committee members in Wilmington’s First Ward district. One member was absent from the meeting so the vote will occur before the next city council meeting on July 6.
Reach John Hamilton at 937-382-2574
