Ahead of the upcoming election, Capital B Gary is giving readers the chance to learn more about the candidates appearing on their ballots. These candidates represent the interests of Gary and other Lake County residents and bring their unique perspectives and goals for the community. This year, Gary Common Council member Mark Spencer faces Republican Will Miller in the race for the Indiana State Senate District 3 seat. In his Q&A, Miller shares his motivation to run for office, legislative priorities, and hopes for Gary’s future. In lieu of responses to our questions, we have included a breakdown of Spencer’s legislative record as councilman and campaign platform, as he did not respond to Capital B Gary’s questions for this Q&A.
This story has been edited for length and clarity.
Will Miller
What was your biggest motivation to run for office this term?
My biggest motivation for running for office this term was the future of our family structure and balancing truthful relationships in government. We fail to recognize how important it is to have structured decisions before we take action. This lack of communication with our legislative process between Northwest Indiana and our state hinders our growth rate. We are a giant waiting to grow with the right approach.
What is your most fond District 3/Gary memory?
The Jason Johnson football game vs. Hobart, Lake Central going downstate in 1984, West Side winning State [in 2002], Lake Station winning Sectional 2023, groundbreaking at the land-based casino, and seeing Frankie Beverly and Maze on the Lakefront was amazing.
Tell us about a bill you would propose in the state Senate that would benefit the residents of Gary.
I would propose a bill to create [a] Northwest Indiana transportation federal agency separate from the federal functions that are currently in place. Currently, all decisions connect us with Chicago, which has competing interests related to their own economic interests and growth.
What areas do you find the most opportunity to work with Democrats in the state legislature?
I see the greatest opportunities to partner with Democrats in health, working on a robust initiative of care focused on the prevention of chronic diseases, which saves money and lives, connecting with all religious partners and focusing on healthy lifestyles, which would support public safety and economic development.
What is your biggest hope for Gary/District 3?
My biggest hope for District 3 is for it to be rebuilt with an entertainment Jackson World Park. Utilizing our [Indiana Dunes] National Park to enhance [us] into the technology, transportation, and recreation hub of the Midwest. Expanding on our Northwest Indiana Airport and gaming with a focus on building with collaboration of the district as a whole.
Mark Spencer
Spencer began his political career in 2023, winning an at-large seat on Gary’s Common Council. As a councilman, he sponsored Council Resolution 2024-03, which focused on community safety through firearm education and safe firearm storage.
Committee Assignments:
- Art, Culture & History – Chair
- Parks, Recreation & Culture
- Investigation
- Police & Public Safety Building Commission – Chair
- Boards & Commissions
Candidate Platform
- Youth & Gun Safety: Plans to push for child access prevention laws to reduce accidental shootings and suicides among young people.
- Economic Development: Want to foster inclusive workforce development strategies to strengthen local economic resilience and opportunities within District 3.
- Environment: Intends to amplify community voices in state environmental decision-making, prioritizing environmental justice and climate action
Spencer is most known for his work as the West Side Theater Guild director at West Side High School, where he has taught since 1998. He also serves as the director of fine arts for the Gary Community School Corporation.