Steven R Nation
(Rep)
Retired, former prosecuting attorney and judge in Hamilton County
Why are you seeking elected office?
I am deeply committed to serving & improving our community. Throughout my career as a prosecutor & judge, I have witnessed the importance of effective governance in ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents. My motivation stems from a desire to continue making a positive impact on Hamilton County, leveraging my extensive experience & leadership skills to address key issues facing our community.
With over four decades of experience in public service, including serving as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge in Hamilton County, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this role. I have a proven track record of leadership, having successfully led initiatives such as the establishment of the Youth Assistance Program and Victim Assistance in Hamilton County. My involvement in various committees and organizations, including the Comprehensive Behavioral Health Plan for Hamilton County, demonstrates my dedication to addressing critical issues such as mental health and public safety.
What are the most important challenges facing the County Council/Commission?
One of my significant initiatives is to finalize the county’s comprehensive response to behavioral health with an Assessment Center. This center will enhance our assessment capabilities, enabling more accurate diagnoses, the development of effective treatment plans for individuals, and ensuring proper care is delivered. Further, as the only county in Indiana with a AAA bond rating, we must continue to review all of the budgetary factors so as to retain our status, thus reducing costs to taxpayers. We must continue to work with all of the governmental officials and citizens to be sure that we continue to provide needed services now and in the future.
What will you do to support a vibrant economy in our county?
As a County Councilman, my approach to fiscal responsibility revolves around transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management. I prioritize thorough evaluations of budgets & expenditures, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively. This involves scrutinizing each line item and prioritizing investments with the greatest community impact while maintaining a balanced budget and minimizing unnecessary debt. Collaboration among elected officeholders, private and nonprofit agencies, and citizens is key to identifying cost-saving opportunities and maximizing efficiency. I am committed to maintaining our county’s AAA bond rating and maintaining reserves, such as our $50M rainy day fund, to safeguard against economic uncertainty.
What changes would you make to create a more effective county government?
I believe in fostering open lines of communication and cooperation to ensure that our efforts are aligned and complementary. By working together proactively, we can leverage our collective expertise and resources to tackle complex issues such as infrastructure development, economic growth, and community services. I am committed to promoting a culture of mutual respect and collaboration among all county, city, town, and township officials recognizing that our shared goal is to serve the best interests of Hamilton County residents.
What is the role of the County Council/Commission in serving the unhoused population of Hamilton County?
When looking at homelessness of individuals and families in Hamilton County we must take a comprehensive approach to be able to truly help. We must include the Township Trustees and various not-for-profit organizations who serve the homeless for any plan to properly serve. We must be sure that, in addition to emergency needs being met, we must be committed to also including such items as prevention, life skills, financial training, educational and career training, and behavioral health services. With this approach, we help individuals proceed from transitional to permanent housing. I am committed to help preserve the stability of individuals and families so we may also help preserve the stability of our communities and county.
What is the role of the County Council/Commission in providing affordable housing and public transportation in Hamilton County?
Concerning affordable housing for the county, we know that there is an increasing need to provide such housing and transportation so that we can satisfy our county's businesses with individuals who can work and satisfy the increasing need for services from our citizens. Our county must develop a system that not only satisfies the business needs, but also satisfies the needs of the individuals for additional educational and career training so that each individual may reach their highest potential. I am working with groups such as Hamilton County Express and Invest Hamilton County to develop a plan to address these present needs and future issues.