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State Representative 9 (LaPorte Co)

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    Chris Cleveland
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Randy J Novak
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What experiences, education, and personal characteristics qualify you to serve as a member of the Indiana General Assembly?

What are some of the unique challenges you see facing Northwest Indiana and how, specifically, will you work to address those challenges?

What is your understanding of the movement to establish an independent, non-partisan redistricting commission in Indiana to manage the redistricting process? How will you ensure that all Hoosiers are equally represented?

Share your thoughts about data center regulations at the State level that could possibly interfere with municipality's authority to establish ordinances? How would you address the cost of infrastructure for these data centers?

How will you ensure that your constituents have an equal opportunity to make their voice and opinion heard?

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Occupation/Background State Representative District 9, / Retired Chief Michigan City Fire Department / Retired LaPorte County Council / Currently Licensed Realtor Indiana & Michigan, .
Campaign Email randy@electrandynovak.com
Campaign phone 2198777069
Notes District 9 is Northern part of LaPorte County and Eastern part of Porter County. Please call me with any questions. Campaign number is my cell.
My goal in public service is to be part of the solution, guided by experience, hard work, and common-sense values. I believe in bipartisan cooperation to find common ground and improve lives. I have served 11 years as a LaPorte County Councilman, working to make a positive difference. As a firefighter, I am committed to putting others first and solving problems when it matters most. As a licensed real estate broker since 1998, I understand local housing challenges. My experience includes business, finance, contract negotiation, and managing multimillion-dollar budgets. A lifelong La Porte County resident, I know and understand the issues in Northwestern Indiana. I am committed to serving with integrity, transparency, and respect for all.
High utility costs, crime, housing, and overall cost of living remain top concerns. I supported over 35 amendments to HB1002 to lower utility costs and hold companies accountable, but they were rejected by the supermajority. I met with IURC officials and urged the Governor to take action, leading to a formal inquiry into rising rates. I co-sponsored SB148, expanding the Gun Taskforce to include Porter and LaPorte Counties to help track crime-related firearms without infringing on Second Amendment rights—it is now law. I also supported HB1001 to reduce costs for builders, though more must be done. Affordable housing remains critical, and high utility costs impact homebuyers.
After seeing firsthand what can happen when one party controls redistricting, I strongly support creating an independent, non-partisan redistricting commission—regardless of which party holds power. It’s time to make the process fair and equal for every district. Last December, two weeks were spent on redistricting, taking valuable time away from the 2026 session that should have been focused on real issues facing Hoosiers. We heard clearly from constituents—they did not want it handled this way. We must establish clear guidelines to ensure a truly fair and transparent process. It’s time to fix redistricting and restore trust.
I believe local communities must have a strong voice in data center development. State regulations should provide consistency and clear standards, but not override a municipality’s authority to set ordinances that reflect local needs. A one-size-fits-all approach ignores the unique concerns of each community. We need a balanced approach that supports economic growth while preserving local control over zoning and permitting.

Infrastructure costs should not fall on taxpayers. Data center developers must pay their fair share through impact fees, utility agreements, and partnerships. They should be responsible for necessary upgrades to power, water, and roads. This ensures growth without placing financial burdens on residents.
Ensuring every constituent has a voice starts with being accessible, responsive, and transparent. I will maintain regular communication through town halls, community meetings, and open office hours across the district. I will also use multiple channels—email, phone, and online platforms—so people can reach me in the way that works best for them.

Just as important is listening. I will actively seek input from all communities, including those who may feel overlooked, and make sure their concerns are represented. Clear updates on legislation and decisions will keep constituents informed. My commitment is to represent everyone fairly and make sure every voice is heard and respected.