LORDSTOWN — Village council has named Ernest Bowen on Thursday as its newest member to fill an opening after Terry Campbell resigned in January.

Council met in special session and had him sworn in by Mayor Jackie Woodward.

Bowen will begin serving Saturday with his first council meeting Monday.

Council President Robert Bond said council had seven candidates and felt Bowen was the best choice, noting his volunteerism and activities in the community.

Bond said candidates were interviewed last week.

Bowen will serve through December, and if he wants to continue on council will need to run in the November general election for a new term.

He said since his retirement after 33 years with the U.S. Army he has volunteered in the community and has been active with the annual apple cider festival held each fall.

Bowen said he chose to be on council as a way to serve the community and give back.

“I look forward to being a team member and representing the residents of Lordstown to the best of my abilities,” he said,

Bowen has lived in the community for five years.

Woodward said the council “made a good choice.”

Other applicants were Stanley Czeck, Laurie Czoka, Mark McGrail, Jace Melick, Ron Radtka and Danielle Watson.