BEXLEY, Ohio — Michael C. Price, Bexley’s longtime parks and recreation director, will serve as mayor through the next regular municipal election after City Council selected him Wednesday to fill the vacancy left by Ben Kessler’s resignation. Price will complete Kessler’s term until November 2027. Council members chose him at a special meeting, a day after interviewing Price and two other finalists in an executive session. The city has not disclosed how many people applied for the position. “I am honored to serve Bexley in this new role,” Price said in a statement. He said he would seek residents’ input, bring people together and make thoughtful decisions for the city. Price had served as director of Bexley’s Parks and Recreation Department for 17 years. Born and raised in Bexley, he graduated from Bexley High School in 1997. He is married and has three children. Kessler resigned earlier in September after accepting a position with the Columbus Partnership. He served Bexley for 19 years, including more than 14 years as mayor.