Leader Publications

John Engel chose to take a teaching opportunity rather than fill the position of Niles Charter Township treasurer, which he was voted into in November’s general election.

Engel, who works as a senior accountant at Notre Dame University, said he would be teaching on the weekends, but wouldn’t disclose where he would be teaching.

He said it wouldn’t be possible for him to work, teach and serve as township treasurer at the same time. That’s why he chose not to serve as treasurer.

“It wasn’t an easy decision,” Engel said. “I ran because I know I could have done it (treasurer), but I needed to make the decision because this was the dream and I get to live my dream.”

Engel said he was offered the teaching opportunity after he defeated incumbent Jim Ringler in the primary, but before the general election.

Engel submitted a letter of resignation as treasurer in September, but it was too late for his name to be taken off the general election ballot. Voters then elected Engel as treasurer over Ringler, who was running as a write-in candidate.

On Monday, Niles Charter Township trustees appointed Ringler as treasurer effective when Engel resigns, or if Engel doesn’t take office by the Dec. 31 deadline.

Supervisor Jim Stover said Monday Engel’s resignation in September wasn’t official because Engel couldn’t resign from a position he didn’t hold. Engel can only resign after he’s been sworn in. Engel would also lose the position if he weren’t sworn in by Dec. 31.

Engel reaffirmed Thursday he would not take the treasurer position.

“I commend the decision of the board. I respect all those people,” Engel said. “The right man is in that chair right now. I truly believe Jim Ringler is the right person for that job.”

Ringler has been treasurer for 16 years.