Democratic challenger Matt Carroll lays out vision for Mishawaka, incumbent has not replied
The Tribune is partnering with the League of Women Voters of the South Bend Area and the American Democracy Project of Indiana University South Bend to publish candidates' answers to questions on the issues. The League, with local help from the ADP, operates Vote411.org, a website with information about the candidates and their positions on key issues.
The Tribune has agreed to run candidate answers unedited, meaning any spelling, typographical or grammatical errors are the candidates' own. The Tribune is publishing only some of the questions from a selection of contested races. Additional questions and answers, including from candidates who have no opponent, are available at Vote411.org.
Early voting for Indiana's Nov. 7 municipal primary election began Oct. 11. To vote early, either fill out an application for a mail ballot at https://indianavoters.in.gov/MVPHome/PrintDocuments or vote in person. In St. Joseph County, there are two early-voting locations: the County-City Building, 227 W. Jefferson Blvd. in South Bend; or the Mishawaka County Services Building, 219 Lincoln Way W. in Mishawaka. Voters must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
In Mishawka's 2nd Council District, Republican incumbent Mike Bellovich is challenged by Democrat Matt Carroll. Bellovich did not respond to the questionnaire.
Matt Carroll
Occupation: Financial advisor, Edward Jones
Email: MattCarrollMishawaka@gmail.com
Campaign phone: 574-339-5710
What is your top priority if you are elected to the Mishawaka Common Council?
Carroll: My top priority is giving a voice to the residents of Mishawaka’s 2nd District and ensuring that they have a say in their local government. Residents deserve honest, transparent, and accessible Council leadership that represents their needs and concerns.
What is the biggest challenge facing Mishawaka and how will you address that challenge?
Carroll: Ensuring Mishawaka’s public safety is the biggest challenge we face. To overcome this challenge, we need to provide adequate resources to our first responders. This includes proper funding for public safety and emergency medical services, exploring partnerships, investing in technology, and prioritizing community outreach and education.
What skills and experiences qualify you to serve on the city council? Please include specific examples of past involvement in local politics and/or public service.
Carroll: I have been a Mishawaka resident for 19 years, 16 of those in the 2nd district. I am a former School City of Mishawaka teacher and currently run a business in Mishawaka as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments. As a teacher, I served as a union officer gaining valuable experience in public labor and negotiations. I spent several terms on the Mishawaka Education Foundation Board serving as a board member, Vice President, and President. I received my undergraduate degree from Bethel College and am currently working on a Master’s in Finance through the College for Financial Planning.
What are your views on tax abatements? What should be required of companies seeking such abatements and what power should the city have to re-claim tax money if a company does not fulfill its promises?
Carroll: Tax abatements can be a powerful tool to spur economic growth. However, they should generally be used when there is evidence that the revenue lost will bring a good return on investment in a reasonable timeframe. Companies should present adequate revenue assessments and follow-through plans to the council, including measures to guarantee taxpayers' ROI. The council should evaluate the risk involved when granting tax abatements and make informed decisions with ample information.
What is the best way to curb crime? Should we increase police staffing, technology and budgets? Or should we redirect resources away from policing? Please explain your reasoning.
Carroll: I believe the best way to curb crime is to strike a balance between increasing police resources and investing in prevention and rehabilitation programs. This could include community-based programs and exploring new technologies to improve policing outcomes. A holistic approach that combines traditional law enforcement methods with alternative solutions is the most effective way to create safer communities.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Carroll and Bellovich square off for 2nd District seat in Mishawaka
