Education
Associate of Science in Nursing, Certificate in Therapeutic Massage, Academy of Practical Homeopathy, College of Practical Homeopathy
Occupation
Homeopath, Massage Therapist, RN
The responsibilities of a trustee are to provide public assistance (funds for basic needs), maintain a food pantry, parks and cemetery maintenance, fire protection along with all the legal duties of properly managing the financial records and funds as well as working with the three-member board that is elected as the legislative and fiscal body of the township.
I am currently serving in my 8th year on the Richland Township Trustee Board. I have learned a lot over the years and have a desire to see our township continue to be as successful as it can be. I feel I can deliver the service, while working with the staff at the office, that our clients have come to know and, in some cases, depend on. Our current trustee is retiring; with the knowledge I have gained over the years and the effort I am willing to put forth, I believe I am the best candidate for the position.
At Richland Township we not only provide the public with financial assistance, but we also have contacts for other offices that offer services as well. We can put people in touch with those other offices that may be able to help. Knowing that those budgets are also affected, I will be implementing a program to help people determine exactly why they are in need. For example: is this a one-time problem or is it recurring? If it is recurring, we will sit down with them to go over their income and expenses to determine where they can make adjustments to better live within their means if at all possible. If this is not possible, the office will help determine what can be done to better the situation.
It is my understanding that the trustee office is a last resort when it comes to help for natural disasters. We would certainly point individuals in the right direction for the type of assistance they need. The help the office offers remains the same as in any other situation: an application is filled out, and it is determined what help can be given (rent/mortgage, utility, funeral, food and other essential needs). It is possible that we would be able to help find temporary shelter in the case of a natural disaster.
It is still too early in the process of the proposed reorganization of Ellettsville and Richland Township for me to say if I am completely for or against it. We have several subcommittees working on plans that the Reorganization Committee will then go over along with public input before sending recommendations on to the Town Council and Township Board. I am for more say in local government, which the reorganization would give to the township residents living in unincorporated areas, as we currently have no say in what happens.
