Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

Board Member, Hobart Township {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

A Township Board Member in Lake County, Indiana, serves as part of the township’s fiscal and oversight body. Board members review and approve the township budget, oversee expenditures, and ensure public funds are used responsibly. They work with the township trustee to promote transparency, accountability, and sound financial management while representing the interests of local residents and supporting essential township services.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Joe Clemmons
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    David (Dave) Scheeringa
    (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 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 office. If elected, what strategies would you implement to enhance communication between the township trustee office and the public?

Campaign Email jclemmons086@gmail.com
email jclemmons086@gmail.com
Years in an elected position 7
1. Continue to put residents first. Not politics. Too often, politics gets in the way of doing what’s right. I will continue to focus on real results, not agendas. 2. Deliver measurable results, not promises. I believe in outcomes, not talk. I will continue to set clear goals, track progress publicly, and make sure the community sees real improvements, not just campaign promises that disappear after Election Day. 3. Responsible Growth & Fiscal Accountability. Taxpayers deserve transparency and smart financial decisions. I will continue to work to ensure every dollar is used efficiently, while supporting responsible development that grows our Township without sacrificing its character or overburdening services.
I bring over two decades of public service experience, including law enforcement and community leadership, along with a strong educational background. As a lifelong Hobart Township resident, I understand the needs of our community and have a proven record of delivering results, working collaboratively, and putting residents first.
I would continue to protect our core services first, ensuring resources stay focused on what matters most to residents. I’d standardize processes and use simple quality checks to improve accuracy. Using basic data and technology would reduce errors and inefficiencies. I would also like to have employees cross-trained to maintain service levels with fewer resources. Overall, the focus is doing fewer things better while maintaining consistent, reliable service.
I would expand outreach through social media, community events, and partnerships with local organizations, while also improving the website, using text/email alerts, and providing clear, consistent updates to ensure residents know what services are available.
email scheeringadave@gmail.com
Years in an elected position 8
If elected back onto the board again, My first priority is to ensure that the Township office is free from being a toxic workplace. That all complaints are handled swiftly and without prejudice. Secondly, as compared to other local townships, Hobart township doesn't offer anything for the residents. We have such great amenities that could be put to use and that I've tried to get established only to fall on deaf ears. And a third concern, which has been a problem for many years, is the Townships main office building. We all know a new building is needed, for the existing one is beyond rehabilitation. And I will work hand in hand with fellow board members and the Trustee to make this happen
I've been in the political arena for almost 30 years and have been elected to this position twice. From 2010 to 2014, and 2014 to 2018. So, having been on this board for 8 years, I know what the job entails and it's budgeting process.
Until the final numbers come from the state exactly what they are cutting from the budget, I would work close with the Trustee and board to assure we are fully staffed and the residents get the help they desire in a timely fashion.
I would like to see the Township hold bi-annual open houses not only for the residents but also elected officials from within it's jurisdiction. And, paired with that, I would invite non- profit organizations to be on hand to promote their services.