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Center Township Trustee

A Trustee is an elected official responsible for administering the township, including such duties as providing township assistance, burial of the indigent, and maintaining the township budget.

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  • Candidate picture

    Kevin Hagen
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Chuck Harris
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

If you are elected, what are the three key priorities you intend to address?

Please explain the qualifications and experience that make you a strong candidate for the position or office you are pursuing.

What strategies would you implement to enhance service quality and accuracy considering imminent budget reductions?

A significant number of residents are unaware of the valuable assistance programs provided by the township trustee. If elected, what strategies would you implement to enhance communication between the township trustee and the public?

What else would you like to share with us?

First and Last Name Kevin Hagen
Campaign Email kevin@hagen4valpo.com
Campaign Phone 2192638270
Social Media and Website Links https://www.hagen4valpo.com/
Candidate Bio Information www.hagen4valpo.com/meetkevin
1. Be responsive and accessible When someone reaches out for help, they deserve a real answer. I’ll run an office that answers the phone, returns calls, and helps people understand their options without unnecessary red tape.

2. Help people through tough times with dignity The Trustee’s office should be there when people need it most. I’ll make sure assistance is fair, timely, and focused on helping folks get back on their feet.

3.Be responsible with taxpayer dollars and build partnerships I’ll treat taxpayer money with care and transparency, and work with local nonprofits and community partners so we can do more for our neighbors with the resources we have.
I’ve spent my life in service to others, and that’s what this role is all about.

I was raised on a farm where helping your neighbor wasn’t optional, it was just part of life. That stayed with me. I went on to serve in the Peace Corps, working on projects that made a real difference in people’s day-to-day lives. After that, I worked with the Muscular Dystrophy Association supporting families and children with disabilities, and later as a nursing home administrator, helping care for seniors.

Since moving to Valparaiso, I’ve stayed involved in the community through organizations like Kiwanis and the Valparaiso International Center.

Those experiences taught me how to listen, solve problems, and focus on practical help.
With fewer resources, we have to be smarter and more focused.

First, I’d make sure the basics are done well. Clear processes, good record keeping, and timely follow up so people get accurate information the first time.

Second, I’d build stronger partnerships with local nonprofits, churches, and community groups. There’s a lot of good work already happening, and coordinating better helps us stretch every dollar further.

Third, I’d look for simple efficiencies. Reducing paperwork where we can, using technology to track cases, and making it easier for people to access help without delays.

At the end of the day, it’s about being responsive, careful with taxpayer dollars, and making sure people get the help they need when they need it.
A big part of this job is making sure people know help is there before a small problem becomes a crisis.

First, I’d be more visible in the community. That means working with local organizations, schools, libraries, and faith groups to share information where people already are.

Second, I’d improve communication tools. A clear, easy to navigate website, simple printed materials, and regular updates through social media so people can quickly understand what help is available and how to apply.

Third, I’d focus on being accessible. Answering the phone, returning calls, and making sure when someone reaches out, they actually get guidance.

If people know the office is responsive and helpful, word spreads, and more neighbors get needed support
At the end of the day, this comes down to how we treat people.

Everyone who walks into the Trustee’s office is there because they need help. They deserve to be treated with respect, listened to, and given clear, honest answers.

This isn’t about politics for me. It’s about service. It’s about making sure the office works the way it’s supposed to and that people can rely on it when they need it most.

That’s the standard I’ll bring to the job every day.
First and Last Name Chuck Harris
Campaign Email votechuckharris@gmail.com
Social Media and Website Links www.votechuckharris.com www.facebook.com/search/top?q=friends%20of%20chuck%20harris
Candidate Bio Information I have built my life around community service in Center Township — whether in public office, on community boards, or simply showing up for people when they need me. My work as coroner, recorder, and community leader in Center Township was not merely about titles; it was about responsibility, dignity, and ensuring people felt seen and cared for in their most vulnerable moments. I operate with a strong sense of duty and a results-first mindset. You don’t do things halfway. If my name is attached to something, I want it done right — and I’ll put in the hours to ensure it is. Why I Would Be a Good Center Township Trustee? I believe I would make a strong Center Township Trustee because I care deeply about the people of our community and
If elected, my top three priorities will be improving facilities, strengthening assistance programs, and building community partnerships. First, I will work to secure a new township facility that provides adequate space and privacy so residents can seek help with dignity. Second, I will enhance access to assistance by improving efficiency, communication, and accountability to ensure those in need are served promptly and responsibly. Third, I will strengthen partnerships with local nonprofits and community organizations to expand resources, reduce duplication, and better support residents facing hardship.
My experience in public service and community leadership has prepared me well to serve as Center Township Trustee. I have served as Porter County Coroner and currently as Porter County Recorder, where I have managed budgets, led staff, and ensured transparency and accountability in government operations. In addition, my involvement with organizations such as United Way of Northwest Indiana, Porter-Starke Services, Visiting Nurse Association of NWI, the Suicide Prevention Taskforce, and the Hub Coalition of Porter County has given me a strong understanding of the needs of our community. This combination of administrative experience and hands-on community involvement makes me a strong and effective candidate.
To maintain service quality and accuracy amid budget reductions, I will focus on efficiency, accountability, and collaboration. This includes streamlining internal processes, leveraging technology to reduce manual errors, and cross-training staff to improve flexibility and continuity of service. I will also prioritize regular audits and clear performance metrics to ensure accuracy and transparency. Finally, I will strengthen partnerships with local nonprofits and agencies to maximize resources, reduce duplication, and ensure residents continue to receive timely and effective assistance despite fiscal constraints.
If elected, I will prioritize clear and consistent communication to ensure residents are aware of available services. This includes increasing our online presence through an updated website and active social media, as well as providing easy-to-understand information on assistance programs. I will also engage directly with the community through outreach events, partnerships with local organizations, and informational materials distributed throughout the township. By making communication more accessible and proactive, we can ensure residents know where to turn when they need help.
I am committed to serving the residents of Center Township with integrity, transparency, and respect. My focus will be on treating every individual with dignity while ensuring taxpayer resources are managed responsibly. With my experience in public service and strong community partnerships, I am prepared to lead with both compassion and accountability. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my skill set to the Trustee position and leave a positive impact for the residents of Center Township.