The seven-member council appropriates all funds for county use, adopts the county budget, fixes the county tax rate, and has exclusive power to borrow money for the county.The council has the ultimate decision-making power regarding fiscal affairs. The council has authority to view or review fiscal matters, determine proper policy, and set priorities for the allocation and expenditure of county funds. The General Assembly determines the powers of the county council in this area. Typically these powers include● Approving and fixing annual operating budgets of all county government offices and agencies. {IC 36-2-5-7}● Establishing salaries, wages, per diems, and other compensation for all county officials and employees. {IC 36-2-5-3}● Fixing tax rates and establishing levies on all county property for the purpose of raising funds to meet budget requirements in conducting county business [IC 36-2-5-11}, as well as authorizing the borrowing of money in the form of bonds and notes. {IC 36-2- 6-18}● Appropriating public funds, i.e., authorizing the expenditure of county money by particular officials or departments for specific purposes. {IC 36-2-5-11 and IC 36-2-5-12}● Authorizing certain purchases or sales of county owned land. {IC 36-1-11-3}
Education (degree/year/where)
Bachelor's of Science in Political Science, 2024, Ball State University. Master's of Public Administration, 2026, University of Baltimore.
Occupation
Social Worker
Experience and qualifications
As a social worker, I have practical experience in public service, wherein I work directly with families and children confronting difficult issues. This part has improved my capacity to make wise judgments, negotiate systems, and fight for those in need of a voice. I am ready to serve Delaware County with focus, accountability, and outcomes, especially considering my dedication to accountability and common-sense leadership.
Community involvements
Through my positions as a social worker and foster parent, I actively participate in my community helping families and children dealing with difficult circumstances. To assist to advance stability and well-being, I often work with local agencies, courts, and service providers. Staying involved, listening to inhabitants, and partnering with community organizations will help me to have a significant influence.
Incumbent?
No
Previously sought/Held offices
No
I aspire to provide county administration with a pragmatic, results-driven attitude, prioritizing residents. Keeping taxes low, preserving affordability for working families, and guaranteeing decisions are made with accountability and transparency are all aims of mine.
By being available, listening to issues, and guaranteeing that people grasp how and why decisions are reached, I also want to improve trust between the local government and the neighborhood. Ultimately, I wish to assist in building a county where families may flourish, one that is financially prudent, and attentive to its inhabitants.
Support Level: 2
In small, focused instances, tax abatements can be beneficial, but they should not be the standard approach. Any incentive must match long-term community demands and offer taxpayers a clear, quantifiable benefit.
Essential is accountability. With consistent reporting, businesses should satisfy particular criteria, including job creation, pay, and investment. Should those promises not be kept, clawback clauses ought to be put in place to safeguard taxpayers. Transparency is also crucial in these deals.
Rising costs, competing budget priorities, and the need to preserve vital services without overburdening residents are putting the county under stress. Long-term commitments and inflation call for strict financial planning.
My method seeks to maintain taxes under control while enhancing efficiency and responsibility. That means giving main services top priority, cutting waste, and making every cent count. I also encourage more openness so that people are aware of how their tax money is used.
Fiscal responsibility entails making wise, realistic decisions that safeguard taxpayers while allowing the government to concentrate on what counts most.
If we had enough money, I would put more focus on projects that make life better, build a stronger community, and help those who need it the most. It's really important to take care of our roads and bridges because they keep us safe and connected, so fixing and upgrading them is very important. I would also spend money on parks and recreational areas to make sure families have safe and fun places to be active and connect with each other. Services for mental health in the county jail are very important too; they help tackle the real problems and lower the chances of people going back to jail. I would also look into programs that help with affordable housing, public health, and support for families that are struggling either financially or so
Support Level: 4
Retaining all three economic growth arms in Delaware County is something I highly support. While the Chamber of Commerce offers a private-sector viewpoint and helps local businesses, city and county offices concentrate on public sector planning and resource allocation. Retaining all three enables cooperation, varied input, and a more thorough approach to economic growth, therefore guaranteeing that public and commercial interests are considered in planning and development decisions.
Support Level: 2
I have a cautious level of support for TIF districts. When used strategically and transparently, they can help spur economic development in underinvested areas. However, TIFs must be carefully managed to ensure they do not divert funds from essential public services like schools and infrastructure. I support TIFs only when there is a clear plan, measurable outcomes, and accountability to the community, so the benefits truly outweigh the costs.
Yes, I support moving the remaining offices to the new Justice Center on S. Tillotson if it improves efficiency, accessibility, and services for residents. Consolidating offices in a modern, well-equipped facility can make government operations smoother and easier for the public to navigate, while also supporting a safer and more functional workspace for county employees.
