Councilwoman Wells Resigns From District 11 Seat

City-County Councilwoman Crista Lee Wells resigned from her District 11 seat on October 31. The 40-year-old Democrat represented parts of Wayne and Pike townships on the city’s west side. She told Mirror Indy that the decision allows her to focus on her family, specifically her 16-year-old daughter who is preparing for college.

Wells first took office in 2019. In June 2025, she became the second Democratic councilor to call for Mayor Joe Hogsett’s resignation during an investigation into the handling of sexual harassment allegations against former aide Thomas Cook. She later left the Democratic caucus on the council. Wells stated that these political conflicts did not drive her current decision to step down.

“I work for the community,” Wells said. “Not for the Hogsett administration or any particular party.” She added that being her daughter’s mother is her most important title. Wells plans to move out of the district soon and described the change as a transition into the next chapter of her personal and professional life.

The Democratic Party’s precinct committee chairs will appoint a replacement for the vacant seat within 30 days. All 25 City-County Council seats are scheduled for election in 2027. One candidate, Jaclyn Fries, announced on October 30 that she intends to fill the vacancy. Fries has already launched a campaign for the district since January and works for the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

Wells’ resignation marks the end of a seven-year tenure on the council. The appointment process for her successor begins immediately, potentially resulting in a short-term assignment before the general election cycle concludes. The council will continue to operate with a designated interim or appointed member representing District 11 until the next full term begins.