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Education
Masters in Education, IU; Bachelor of Science, UC
Occupation
Senior Research Accountant, University of Cincinnati; Physics Accountant-part-time, Indiana University
As a Perry Township Board Member, I would participate with other Board Members in reviewing and participating in the governing work for the township under the daily management of the Perry Township Trustee and his administrative staff.
Perry Township covers a large section of Bloomington and has been key in the development and support of key township services, including critical gap-filling emergency services. I have recently served on the Sophia Travis Social Service Grant Committee within Monroe County. Serving on the committee demonstrated to me the value of township government and their role in providing social services in our community. It is the impetus for my interest in servicing our community more robustly and ensuring that Perry Township can continue services amidst the changes in Federal and State social service support which will likely increase the need for township support for community members in our area.
As a Perry Township Board member my priorities would be to work with the Trustee to identify current and likely future needs, to identify the fiscal support needed to continue current services and expand and innovate services as needed, to look for efficiencies in service delivery and to advocate locally and at the state level for township resources, such as our rainy day and reserve funds to remain the property of township government and not be absorbed by the state. Additionally, I would work with other townships facing the same pressures and share or develop ideas to ensure that all Monroe townships are aligned on ideas for maintaining the local control that best allows us to meet community needs.
We are observing an increase in extreme local weather and disaster events. Perry Township should review local emergency plans and develop a list of services and assistance needed for residents based on recent weather experiences. Bloomington and Monroe County do a good job of street cleanup, etc. The township can assist in coordinating services with the city and county to ensure needs for shelter, food, clothing, and transportation can be arranged quickly. Part of this plan review must include a communication plan to ensure that Perry Township messaging is clear and communicated across a wide variety of electronic platforms. Many residents don’t interact with their township government office and might not know about available services
Education
BS Indiana University
Occupation
retired
The township board members provide oversight for the trustee's office. The approval of appropriations, plans for the future, and emergency matters are critical to maintain proper funding and management. Advice on personnel issues and responses to state legislature issues are also helpful.
My career in public health related nursing provided a way to participate in a social services network. Being on the PT board feels like an extension of that service. Even in a relatively affluent city there are pockets of need that demand attention. I feel that sharing my experience with the Township Trustee is an excellent way to use my skills to assist others.
The first things we need to provide are food and shelter. It's important to keep in mind that there are also different types of needs- from unhoused persons to those temporarily needing assistance. Budgeting must be carefully done to make sure assistance doesn't run out before a budget year is finished and that in addition, emergency needs can be met. Knowing the needs of our particular township is crucial in knowing how to allocate our resources. Partnering with other agencies is an excellent way to make our own funds go further.
Providing emergency shelter is key to keeping residents safe. Nights in hotels can be provided until more permanent housing is found. The Township provides a food pantry to help with food needs. The Township staff must be experienced in working with county social service agencies who can further provide assistance.
