History Made Again! Fort Wayne City Council President Glynn Hines

By Tabitha Ervin
Editorial Director

Recently I was able to chat with Glynn Hines on his historic selection as the newly elected City Council President and first African American to ever have this role in Fort Wayne. We were able to discuss his 23 year political career (24 in April), what's next and a variety of topics. It was great to hear some of the history of the city council and how he got involved in politics to begin with.

Ervin: Thanks for your time today and congrats Mr. Council President! So tell me about your journey here and how you got started in politics.

Hines: Well growing up my dad was involved in politics and both my parents were community activists so I was born and raised in an environment where community service and politics was important. I remember as a kid listening to the conversations at the barber shop especially when John Nuckols won the 1st district in 1959. He was the first African American to serve on the Fort Wayne city council and represented the first district for 23 years. There was a 75% voter turnout and people were excited about the representation in our community.

I then went to Manchester College and studied history and communications. I was interested in the conditions and plight of African Americans at the time. I began my political career in 1977 with Councilman  Nuckols and worked as precinct committeeman in the 1st District. I also served as campaign manager for 1st District Councilman Archie Lunsey in 1991 before eventually running myself. I felt like if not me then who so I ran!

Ervin: I also know you made a big announcement this week so talk a little about that.

Hines: I will not be running for another term after I complete this one. It's time for me to take a break. The city is in good hands and I feel great about the current group and those coming next. I have enjoyed being a part of history as the longest serving African American council member. After my kidney transplant, I felt a new energy and that's when I came back and won an at-large seat with Councilwoman Michelle Chambers and we were joined by Councilwoman Sharon Tucker for the 6th district to make history being the first three African Americans to serve on city council together. We have worked on some strategies together and I have enjoyed mentoring up-and-comers in this work.

Ervin: What else would you share with our community, especially those in the African American community?

Hines: You don’t have to run for an office but if you are interested please do! You can participate by voting, working on a campaign or registering people to vote. I think people should be focused on continual self improvement.

I’ll end with this: Life goes fast and in my 4th quarter, I want to slow down and enjoy a little more. I love to golf and travel with my wife, especially to see our grandkids. I will continue to volunteer and mentor on a selective basis as well in our community.

Ervin: Thank you for your service to this community! We look forward to your work as Council President!