The future of Mishawaka is in the hands of a new leader. On Tuesday, Dave Wood was officially sworn in as mayor for the princess city.

Wednesday on 16 Morning News, Wood joined us for his first ever live television interview as mayor. Wood says he is still getting used to the title.

“Every time I hear Mayor I look over and see if Mayor Jeff [Rea] is around,” he joked. “If you would have asked me a month ago would I be the mayor of Mishawka I would have laughed and said there’s no way but it has been a whirlwind. Just looking forward to promoting our community; I think we have such a great story to tell. I think we’re a regional leader in a lot of things and we have so much potential for the future.”

Wood is leaving is district 2 city council seat to take the position; a replacement will be appointed by district 2 precinct leaders within the next 30 days. Wood says community service has been at the heart of everything he’s done in his professional career.

“Whether it’s being involved on boards or here locally or as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, community service has really been the heart of every career that I’ve had,” Wood said. “That’s why I really like this challenge here because I get to focus on making my community a better place.”

On a personal level, Wood is married and has 4 children. He was born and raised in Mishawaka and has deep roots in the community.

“I would never consider leaving, it’s taught me everything that I am,” Wood said. “The neighborhoods that I grew up in, the people that have been a part of my life…can’ think of a better place to live.”

To hear more of Wood’s interview, including answers to viewer questions, just click on the video link above.