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Occupation/Background
Co-Director of LaPorte County Voter Registration
Currently I work as the Co-Director for the LaPorte County Voter Registration Office.
I have experience in management and leadership positions and a background in public service. I have a degree in Pastoral Leadership, and 10 years of experience as Senior Pastor. This experience taught me about organizing events and services, creating and abiding by annual budgets, and building a strong team focused on service. And it instilled in me a strong desire to help my community.
I have worked in several customer service positions in retail, which has taught me about working with the public and employee management. My current position as Voter Registration Official has taught me the importance of working in a bipartisan manner, as well as learning and abiding by state laws and regulations.
My concern with economic development is about preserving the rights and desires of county residents. Currently, residents do not feel as though they have a choice as big businesses build massive data centers. While data centers bring substantial revenue, they do not create many long-term jobs, and there are many questions about the negative effects they will have on our land and water. I would support strong regulations and zoning ordinance requirements and for incoming businesses to work primarily with local union organizations before agreeing to tax abatements. Unions ensure high quality, local employment, and strong safety protocols.
As for solar, we need to consider alternative energy sources while preserving our farmland. Finally, we must invest heavily in small businesses.
Currently, the state is not working well with local government. It is essential that state leaders are held accountable for the effects of their policies on local communities. We must invite our state leaders to public meetings to discuss these effects, and the reasons behind their votes. We also must build a stronger working relationship with state legislatures to communicate local concerns. As Commissioner, we must advocate strongly for local control, and for the voices of our people to be heard.
It is absolutely essential that we work together, regardless of political party or personal opinion. We cannot allow sour relationships and petty rivalry to hinder the work entrusted to us. In previous years, it seems that the Commissioners were too busy fighting amongst themselves, and nothing was getting accomplished for the people.
Local government requires professionalism and respectful bipartisan cooperation to be effective. Just as I work in a bipartisan manner in my current office, I pledge to work with all elected officials and department heads and set aside any personal issues I may have with them.
Occupation/Background
Former Mayor of Michigan City Indiana - environmental and stormwater protection background
Notes
file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/11/01/46FDC621-9350-45FF-9192-42971FAC0E4D/2026%20Ron%20Meer.pdf
I’m proud to be a lifelong resident of La Porte County. I was raised in Springfield Township and moved to Michigan City when I was 18, where I continued to live, work, and stay involved in the community. My extensive experience as a Michigan City two-term city councilman and mayor has provided me with a strong understanding of how county services should support both our rural communities and our cities and towns.
My background includes a legacy of getting things accomplished when no one else could. If the residents want someone who will get results and have a significant impact on outcomes, then I’m that person. I have the time, to be a full-time county commissioner
We must stay focused on the core responsibilities of county government. That means providing essential services, protecting our communities, and being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. It also includes making land-use decisions that respect our neighborhoods. One of my top priorities is protecting groundwater and well water sources while safeguarding our watersheds, tributaries, and Lake Michigan. I do not support placing data centers in residential areas because residents deserve to have their communities protected and their concerns heard.
If the voters entrust me with the role of La Porte County Commissioner, I will continue working with Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike to pursue common-sense solutions, keep county government focused on the services.
Full cooperation is needed between municipalities, county state and federal governmental agencies.
Absolutely I would continue my legacy of working across party lines with independents , Republicans and Democrats alike
Occupation/Background
Double Associates - Applied Science and Accounting. Computer and electronic repair business owner since 1995 in LaPorte County
Campaign phone
219-344-1128
I’m a La Porte County small business owner since 1995, with decades of experience managing budgets, payroll, and long-term financial planning. I hold a double associate’s degree in Applied Science and Accounting, along with continued training in both fields, giving me a strong understanding of financial management and accountability.
I’m not a career politician. I bring a practical, results-focused approach, grounded in transparency, fiscal discipline, and common sense. I’m willing to ask tough questions, challenge wasteful spending, and make decisions based on facts to serve taxpayers responsibly.
Economic growth starts with stability, transparency, and strong infrastructure. We need a long-term plan to maintain roads, utilities, and county assets so growth isn’t driven by “emergencies.”
I support development that expands the tax base and creates good-paying jobs, but it must fit our county—not change it.
I’ll consider data centers in existing industrial areas where they don’t impact quality of life and can add tax revenue.
No secret deals or NDAs—residents must have a voice in projects that affect them. Communities should not be forced into major development or infrastructure expansion if it’s not needed.
Solar farms should be carefully reviewed and should not displace prime farmland without clear benefit.
We need smart, balanced growth.
Improve coordination and communication. The county should work proactively with cities, towns, and the state—not just react when issues arise. Regular joint planning meetings and shared long-term capital plans would keep everyone aligned on infrastructure, development, and funding priorities.
Transparency is critical. Fewer closed-door decisions and no backroom agreements build trust across all levels of government.
We also need consistency. Clear policies and predictable processes make it easier for local governments and state partners to work with the county efficiently.
Finally, focus on collaboration, not competition. When local governments succeed, the county succeeds.
Yes. The job is to serve La Porte County, not personal interests. I will work with anyone—regardless of party or position—if it leads to better outcomes for taxpayers.
Collaboration doesn’t mean avoiding tough conversations. It means being respectful, focused on facts, and willing to find practical solutions. I will be straightforward, accountable, and focused on results.
Where we agree, we move forward. Where we don’t, I will still engage professionally and keep the focus on what is best for the county.
