Biographical Information
Campaign phone
2198777069
What experiences, education, and personal characteristics qualify you to serve as a member of this office?
Currently, I am serving my 10th year on the La Porte County Council (6 years as President). I worked at the Michigan City Fire Department for over 33 years, retiring as Chief. My professional background is primarily in public service, encompassing business, finance, contract negotiation, mediation, management of multimillion-dollar budgets, capital expenditures, supervision of employees and staff, project management, and public services.
Since childhood, I have built my life here. I graduated from Roger’s High School and furthered my education obtaining numerous certifications, licenses, and training. Additionally, I serve on boards, committees, and hold positions within both community and professional organizations. I support and volunteer for a wide range of charitable causes.
How will you support and encourage economic growth and development in LaPorte County? Are there any project you would like to see developed or squashed? Please include your thoughts on Solar Farms in LaPorte county, and infrastructure conditions.
Ensuring quality, drama-free meetings is essential. As current President of the RDC, our focus encourages economic growth and development. A notable project is the Kingsbury Industrial Park expansion soon will be serviced by 2 Class-A rail carriers. Also, we've taken proactive steps to promote growth by expanding water and sewer infrastructure under I-94. I recognize that diverse housing options are a crucial factor in attracting and retaining workers. I support property owners' rights to sell or lease their properties for Solar Farms. However, it's essential to address concerns raised by neighboring residents. Ordinances may need adjustments to ensure a mutual outcome for all parties involved, ensuring that our county continues to thrive while respecting the interests of our residents.
What if any changes could be made to improve the county’s working relationship with state and local government?
MY GOAL is always to be “part of the solution”. I maintain an open dialogue with other local government and our state officials. Unfortunately, the Commissioner meetings have become quite chaotic over the past three years, deterring the state, local, and new businesses from engaging with LaPorte County. It's imperative to restore these meetings to focus on the business of the people rather than grandstanding and blocking responsible progress. I am confident that I can facilitate open communication and collaborative efforts on projects. My sole purpose is to make LaPorte County the best it can possibly be.
Will you be willing to collaborate and set aside your differences with other elected officials to put the needs of LaPorte County ahead of your self-interests?
Yes, I pledge to work together in a bipartisan manner to find common ground for the betterment of La Porte County. I will move the county forward with hard work and a respectable approach. I don’t have a hidden agenda, someone pulling my strings, or an ego driving me - I am my own person, dedicated to making La Porte County the best it can be. I have a proven record of collaborating with others. Once elected, party affiliation should not influence one's job. Elected officials serve the people of La Porte County, not one side or the other. For decades, I have prioritized the needs of our residents. With over 35 years in the fire service, my focus has always been on helping people especially on their worst day(s). Firefighters are problem solvers, and that's what I pride myself on being.