David E. Hinchen, a lifelong Hoquiam resident, was selected to fill the vacant Ward 6 seat on the Hoquiam City Council on Monday.

Hinchen was actually the only person to submit a letter of interest, which were due April 6. After a brief discussion, the council decided to forego an executive session to discuss Hinchen’s qualifications and unanimously voted to award him the seat.

“I am a born and raised Grizzly, graduating in 1994” wrote Hinchen in his letter of interest. “I served nearly six years in the U.S. Navy and currently work as the Quinault Indian Nation’s waste water treatment plant supervisor.”

Hinchen did not speak after the vote to give him the council seat, but was present wearing a baseball uniform. He coaches kids ages 8 up through high school in several sports, including baseball, football and basketball.

“I love my community and the people in it, and I am hoping to be able to give back,” wrote Hinchen.

As for his qualifications, while he doesn’t have any experience in the political arena he believes he can provide a fresh look at the issues that won’t be swayed by big business or other interests outside Ward 6.

Hoquiam Mayor Jasmine Dickhoff will swear-in Hinchen at the next City Council meeting, scheduled for April 23 at 7 p.m.