During World War II, McNichols at age 33, enlisted in the Army and served in the 4th Armored Division (United States) engaged in the Siege of Bastogne.

[3] A significant factor in McNichols's failure to get re-elected was a two-day blizzard that began on December 24, 1982, and continued through the holiday.

The massive storm dropped some two feet of snow, with more in some neighborhood; strong winds created impassible drifts.

[4] During his fourteen years in office, several construction projects changed the landscape of the city, including:[5] From 1978–1979, McNichols served as president of the United States Conference of Mayors.

Previously used as offices for the city administration, the Greek-revival style structure underwent restoration from 2011 to 2012 and now serves as a cultural center for public exhibitions and community events.