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Tippecanoe County Commissioner District 1

The County Commissioners serve as the executive and legislative body of county government. They are responsible for maintenance of county property and facilities. They execute contracts, authorize payments of claims, establish personnel policies and authorize drainage and highway infrastructure improvements on behalf of the county. In addition, they make appointments to various departments and committees within the county. They also create and enforce ordinances for the county. There are three commissioners but they must reside in different districts; each commissioner is elected by all voters throughout the county. Term: 4 years

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  • Candidate picture

    Julie Roush
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    James Waters
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

What are the top two priorities you would address if elected?

How do you balance the need for development and economic growth with preserving the character of Tippecanoe County and protecting natural resources?

What measures would you support to increase safety and mental health care within Tippecanoe County?

Is the current housing availability in Tippecanoe County meeting the housing needs of all members of the community?

What can the County Commissioners do to improve healthcare access in Tippecanoe County?

Education Purdue University - Krannert School of Management: Master of Business Administration; Bachelor of Arts with Psychology Major and Economics Minor; Ball State University: Election Administration
Experience in Leadership and Management I have extensive leadership and management experience in both public service and the private sector. As Clerk of the Circuit Court in Tippecanoe County, I lead a team of 30 employees, oversee daily operations, manage large budgets, and direct countywide elections, including managing hundreds of poll workers. Previously, as Fairfield Township Trustee, I served as the chief executive, supervising staff, managing finances, and leading community programs and projects. I also bring private-sector experience as a Financial Advisor and as an Accounting Associate at Home Hospital, where I developed strong financial, operational, and client service skills. My leadership focuses on accountability, teamwork, and delivering efficient, transparent servi
As Indiana SB 1 takes effect, our county must do more with less. My focus is protecting core services such as public safety, roads and bridges, and essential operations while improving efficiency, eliminating waste, and making smarter, more strategic use of taxpayer dollars. We must adapt to this new financial reality without reducing the level of service. Also, I will support the employees who make these services possible by addressing rising healthcare costs, strengthening management processes, and ensuring accountability across departments. By investing in better systems and responsible leadership, we can control costs, retain a strong workforce, and continue serving our community without placing additional burden on the taxpayers.
Our County’s identity is rooted in its prime farmland, & protecting that heritage is essential while supporting thoughtful growth for jobs & housing. The key is balance. Development should be directed to appropriate areas, prioritizing existing zones & underused land, rather than converting high-quality farmland. Clear standards must protect water, drainage, and neighboring properties. I strongly support farmer input and property rights, ensuring landowners have a voice in decisions. Growth should also pay its own way so taxpayers and infrastructure are not overburdened. This is not about stopping development, but about doing it responsibly by preserving farmland and ensuring our County remains a strong place to live & work for generations.
To improve both safety and mental health in Tippecanoe County, we need a balanced approach by supporting law enforcement while also expanding mental health services. That means investing in crisis response alternatives, strengthening local providers like Wabash Valley Alliance, improving training for first responders, and expanding diversion programs. By addressing the root causes, like addiction and mental illness, we can reduce strain on our justice system, improve public safety, and help people get the care they need before a crisis becomes a crime.
It does not meet the needs of all residents. We must take a balanced, collaborative approach to increase diverse housing options & improve affordability across all income levels. That includes working with local partners & private developers to encourage responsible growth & by helping prepare shovel-ready sites that make it easier to attract housing investment. We should also take full advantage of opportunities like READI 2.0, which provides significant state funding to support regional infrastructure and site readiness, key to driving housing development & improving quality of life. By bringing the right people together & leveraging these resources, we can better meet our housing needs while supporting smart, sustainable growth.
As a county commissioner in Tippecanoe County, it’s important to recognize that healthcare delivery is not the direct role of county government. That responsibility lies with providers and hospitals. However, commissioners can support access to care. They can strengthen partnerships with providers like IU Health Arnett Hospital and organizations such as Wabash Valley Alliance, support EMS, and expand mental health and addiction services. They can also help improve access in rural areas, support infrastructure, and leverage state and federal funding. While not directly responsible for providing healthcare, commissioners can help create conditions that improve access and ensure residents can get the care they need.
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