DUTIES OF THE BOARD (From the LaPorte County Website)The County Commissioners may adopt ordinances regulating behavior. Specifically, they have authority to pass ordinances in the following broad areas:To administer elections in conjunction with the county election boardTo incorporate new towns and alter township boundary lines, on petitionTo grant vacation pay, sick leave, paid holidays and other similar benefits to county employeesMaintain all County property and buildingsTo provide for traffic controlTo establish minimum housing standardsMaintain all County RoadsIn most cases the county may exercise its regulatory powers only in the unincorporated areas of the county. As a general rule, the county does not have jurisdiction to regulate behavior in the incorporated cities and towns of the county.The commissioners are the custodians of the home rule powers of the county. Within the scope of home rule, commissioners may adopt and vest themselves with additional regulatory powers. (Generally see IC 36-2-2 for duties of the board of county commissioners.)
Occupation/Background
Co-Director of LaPorte County Voter Registration
Currently I work as the Co-Director for the LaPorte County Voter Registration Office.
I have experience in management and leadership positions and a background in public service. I have a degree in Pastoral Leadership, and 10 years of experience as Senior Pastor. This experience taught me about organizing events and services, creating and abiding by annual budgets, and building a strong team focused on service. And it instilled in me a strong desire to help my community.
I have worked in several customer service positions in retail, which has taught me about working with the public and employee management. My current position as Voter Registration Official has taught me the importance of working in a bipartisan manner, as well as learning and abiding by state laws and regulations.
My concern with economic development is about preserving the rights and desires of county residents. Currently, residents do not feel as though they have a choice as big businesses build massive data centers. While data centers bring substantial revenue, they do not create many long-term jobs, and there are many questions about the negative effects they will have on our land and water. I would support strong regulations and zoning ordinance requirements and for incoming businesses to work primarily with local union organizations before agreeing to tax abatements. Unions ensure high quality, local employment, and strong safety protocols.
As for solar, we need to consider alternative energy sources while preserving our farmland. Finally, we must invest heavily in small businesses.
Currently, the state is not working well with local government. It is essential that state leaders are held accountable for the effects of their policies on local communities. We must invite our state leaders to public meetings to discuss these effects, and the reasons behind their votes. We also must build a stronger working relationship with state legislatures to communicate local concerns. As Commissioner, we must advocate strongly for local control, and for the voices of our people to be heard.
It is absolutely essential that we work together, regardless of political party or personal opinion. We cannot allow sour relationships and petty rivalry to hinder the work entrusted to us. In previous years, it seems that the Commissioners were too busy fighting amongst themselves, and nothing was getting accomplished for the people.
Local government requires professionalism and respectful bipartisan cooperation to be effective. Just as I work in a bipartisan manner in my current office, I pledge to work with all elected officials and department heads and set aside any personal issues I may have with them.
Occupation/Background
Former Mayor of Michigan City Indiana - environmental and stormwater protection background
I’m proud to be a lifelong resident of La Porte County. I was raised in Springfield Township and moved to Michigan City when I was 18, where I continued to live, work, and stay involved in the community. My extensive experience as a Michigan City two-term city councilman and mayor has provided me with a strong understanding of how county services should support both our rural communities and our cities and towns.
My background includes a legacy of getting things accomplished when no one else could. If the residents want someone who will get results and have a significant impact on outcomes, then I’m that person. I have the time, to be a full-time county commissioner
We must stay focused on the core responsibilities of county government. That means providing essential services, protecting our communities, and being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. It also includes making land-use decisions that respect our neighborhoods. One of my top priorities is protecting groundwater and well water sources while safeguarding our watersheds, tributaries, and Lake Michigan. I do not support placing data centers in residential areas because residents deserve to have their communities protected and their concerns heard.
If the voters entrust me with the role of La Porte County Commissioner, I will continue working with Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike to pursue common-sense solutions, keep county government focused on the services.
Full cooperation is needed between municipalities, county state and federal governmental agencies.
Absolutely I would continue my legacy of working across party lines with independents , Republicans and Democrats alike
