Bluffton, IN – The Wells County Republican Party announced the dates and procedures for two upcoming caucuses that will fill local government vacancies. The first caucus, set for Monday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m., will select a replacement for the Bluffton Common Council’s at‑large seat. The second caucus will occur on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 9:30 a.m., to choose a new commissioner for District 3 of the Wells County Board of Commissioners.
Why the vacancies exist
Blake Fiechter vacated his at‑large council seat after winning election to the Indiana State Senate, resigning from the council effective Nov. 3. Commissioner Jeff Stringer announced his resignation on Oct. 28, with his departure slated for Jan. 1, 2027, creating the District 3 opening.
Caucus details and location
Both caucuses will be held at the Wells County Republican headquarters, 125 S. Johnson St., Bluffton. Party officials emphasized that the GOP does not endorse any candidate in these internal selections.
Eligibility and residency requirements
To run, candidates must meet standard Republican Party eligibility: they must have voted in the two most recent Indiana Republican primaries in which they participated and be a Republican in good standing. Residency rules differ by office. Prospective council members must reside within Bluffton city limits, while District 3 commissioner candidates must live in Jefferson, Rockcreek, or Union Township.
Filing deadlines and paperwork
Applicants must submit a Declaration of Candidacy (Form CEB‑5) to caucus chairman Preston T. Wright at least 72 hours before each caucus. The filing deadline for the council seat is Friday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.; the deadline for the commissioner seat is Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 9:30 a.m. Completed forms should be emailed to [email protected]. The form is also available through the Indiana Secretary of State’s website.
Contact information
Questions about the process can be directed to the party via its website at wells.gop/contact.
These caucuses provide local party members an opportunity to shape representation on the Bluffton Common Council and the Wells County Board of Commissioners, ensuring that vacancies are filled promptly and in accordance with party rules.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
