Q&A: Tippecanoe County ballot candidates, who are they and why are they running?
LAFAYETTE, Ind. − While a few office positions are still running unopposed as they did in the May primaries, there are some contested races on Tuesday's ballot.
Here is a run-down of the Tippecanoe County candidates who will be on the ballot on Election Day, as well the thoughts of most candidates on why they're running for public office.
Election Day voting locations can be found on the Tippecanoe County website.
Candidates
For District 1, current County Commissioner Tracy Brown, a Republican, is up for re-election, while Project Manager Level 3 Assessor James Werner has entered his name on the Democratic side of the ballot since May.
The candidates for County Council and their respective districts are as follows:
Ben Murray, Democrat for District 1, running unopposed
Randy Young, Libertarian for District 2
Jody Hamilton, Republican for District 2
Jaime Ortiz, Libertarian for District 3
Kathy Vernon, Republican for District 3
Lisa Dullum, Democrat for District 4
Ryan Kennedy, Republican for District 4
Other offices on the Tippecanoe County ballot include assessor, county clerk, prosecutor, recorder and auditor. Each of these offices have one candidate running for them, therefore unopposed.
Q&A
The Journal & Courier reached out to the candidates facing opponents, asking each of the same questions. The following responses are their answers.
James Werner, County Commissioner, District 1
Why are you running?
"The lack of county leadership during the Covid crisis is what inspired me to run, along with the epic waste of money and resources in the County Information Technology Department. The County Assessor’s Office was the only county office able to conduct normal business through the government shut downs for Covid. This is because we provided tax payers with electronic documents back in 2016 to file required state forms. This document and electronic signature technology was rejected by the County Information Technology Department that answers to the Board of Commissioners and has only recently been accepted as a result of political pressure. Also the County did not produce a single electronic map showing where testing or vaccine centers were in-spite of spending millions on GIS technology and staff for over a decade.
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"My priorities are government accountability to taxpayers and cost effective, reliable solutions to reduce crime and protect the environment. Departments such as the Health Department, Area Planning, Information Technology and The Highway Department answer to the Board of Commissioners and should have clear objectives and be held accountable for spending and the services they provide."
Why do you think you’re the best candidate for the position?
"As a political outsider I feel that I can be more objective in decision making. In order to correct mistakes made in the past elected officials have to acknowledge those mistakes, and that is much more difficult if you were in charge of making them or have political allegiances to those who benefit from perpetuating waste fraud and abuse."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"A growing population means government has to work smarter to fight crime, homelessness, hunger and pollution. When the Assessor’s Office requested geocoded 911 call data for an assessment project, I was shocked to find out that our County Sheriff’s Department did not have a crime data analyst. I would work with Sheriff Goldsmith or whoever is elected in the future and the County Council to fund positions that would help modernize law enforcement and make it more transparent to the people. I would also help fully equip the cities with technology the county already pays for to help protect the environment and maintain our infrastructure."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"Most of the county offices are still using paper forms. We should be using electronic documents in every office at every level of government from the schools to Commissioners Office. The Assessor’s Office has provided this technology for free to the City of Lafayette who now uses it for all of their building permits; meanwhile the County Commissioners signed a contract for an expensive electronic building permit solution from another vendor two years ago that still doesn’t work and that is not available to the municipalities and does not integrate with existing data management systems or the million dollar a year GIS software we already pay for."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"Although national politics and the national economy is making this a tough year for Democrats my campaign is about fiscal conservatism, government reform and accountability, smart growth and protecting the individual liberty of the citizens of Tippecanoe County. If anyone has any other questions about my campaign feel free to visit my website... or message on Facebook."
Tracy Brown, County Commissioner, District 1
Why are you running?
"I have spent my entire adult life serving others, as a career path and as a volunteer in several local nonprofit organizations. Public service is a calling and those of us who choose this life do so knowing that it will not be easy. Each time I have decided to run for elected office, I have asked myself, 'Do I have the energy, passion, and strength to do what needs to be done, and can I make a difference?' I do and I can.
"I love our community and all it has to offer. I work with an incredible team comprised of my fellow commissioners, David Byers and Tom Murtaugh as well as Mayor Tony Roswarski, Mayor John Dennis, and countless others who play a vital role in local government and economic development. It is my strong desire to continue to be a member of this team."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"The demands on our annual budget are significant when it comes to ongoing operations and new infrastructure projects. As one of the fastest growing communities in the State, ongoing maintenance, and upgrades to our infrastructure, is critical. We work with elected and appointed officials in county government to prioritize our road and bridge projects. Moving traffic and people safely through and around our community is important work. Many of these projects will take months, if not years to complete. I will continue to be a voice for our citizens in the planning and prioritization process.
"The need for wastewater services in the northeastern part of the county has been identified and widely publicized over the last two years. This area includes the unincorporated communities of Americus, Buck Creek, and Colburn. County Government has pledged American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the project, and I am working with a citizen’s group and other government officials to move this high priority project forward. We want to launch the project in 2023."
Why do you think you're the best candidate for the position?
"Just over half of the county’s annual budget is allocated for our justice system and public safety related services. This includes, but isn’t limited to judicial services, law enforcement, E911, the jail, and community corrections. These areas impact the lives of our citizens and their safety daily. As your sheriff, I worked with a team to manage an 11-million-dollar budget and over 150 employees in a very dynamic organization. Crisis management and problem solving with our citizens was a daily occurrence.
"The experience and training I have gained as your elected sheriff and county commissioner have provided me with a significant leadership skillset. Those skills along with my opportunities to serve alongside some incredible leaders gives me the background and experience to support county operations at a very high level."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"Local government and Greater Lafayette Commerce work very hard to attract new businesses and jobs to our community. The biggest challenge is developing and retaining a workforce to support our efforts. To answer the challenge, area school corporations launched the Greater Lafayette Career Academy. The Academy offers students college and career readiness programs to prepare them for a career and the workforce. In addition, Greater Lafayette Commerce works with local manufacturers and Ivy Tech Community College to promote career options in our area schools.
"We are also very fortunate to have Purdue University as another partner in our efforts. Purdue is a major employer in the region, and its student population serves as a talent pipeline for area businesses. Collectively we are on the right path to grow our workforce, but it will take time, so our efforts must be sustainable long term.
"Great jobs boost the economy overall, but job growth will mean that we will need adequate housing and even ancillary services like childcare for our new workers. The recently awarded Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) grant provides an opportunity to assist private individuals, nonprofit organizations, and faith based childcare centers in obtaining the appropriate State licenses to operate a childcare center. This is just another example of how collaboration and teamwork bring common sense solutions to benefit the entire community. I will continue to support these, and other efforts related to workforce recruitment and retention.
"Growth on the fringes of both cities is inevitable. Our Area Plan Commission recently launched a township planning effort for Tippecanoe and Wabash Townships. The effort will involve stakeholders from each township serving on a steering committee to help Area Plan Commission staff build a comprehensive growth plan for each township. I have volunteered to serve on the steering committee.
"In planning, it is preferred that growth moves from the cities outward following available utilities. Those utilities will need to be extended further out from the cities to open additional land for housing development. It should be noted that a small portion of the recently awarded READI grant, has been identified as a source of partial funding for the extension of utilities for future development. I am prepared to work with the utilities to find other creative ways to do our part to make these utility extensions possible."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"As we look to the future, we should be examining the processes currently utilized in every level of county government. We should be asking ourselves, are we doing what we do well and if not, how can we improve it? I want to form a government optimization team to review what we do and how we can perform better. Technology is continually evolving and so are the expectations of those we serve.
"The team should be comprised of talented staff members who work with elected and appointed officials across county government. Citizen input is a critical component in the process, and I see this as a long-term effort to improve the delivery of Tippecanoe County Government services."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"I am humbled by the support our community has shown as I seek another term as your county commissioner. As you have supported me over the years as your sheriff and commissioner, I pray two things are evident. First, I endeavor to put the needs of others and my community first. Second, as an elected official, I will continue to work with others to make improvements to better the lives of those we serve."
Randy Young, District 2
Why are you running?
"I want the voters in Tippecanoe County Council District 2 to have a choice for smaller government."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"Eliminate wasteful spending by streamlining and reducing the bureaucracy in county government."
Why do you think you're the best candidate for the position?
"I believe I'm the best choice for District 2 because central planning is not the best way to grow economically. It's fraught with inefficiencies that increase the burden on taxpayers."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"That would be the influx of 'free' money from the U.S. government and the natural urge to spend it when we should be saving it, assuming there are no strings attached stipulating that it needs to be spent right away. Property taxes are rising at a rate of approximately 10% a year, and I fear that we may see a wave of foreclosures if we don't keep spending, and therefor taxes, under control."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"Yes, I'd like to see a change in attitude within County government as to what the proper role of government is, and return to the original intent as envisioned by our founders. The original purpose of government was to protect our rights and property and not to aid or participate in their plunder."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"Absolutely. My wish for our county is that we return to our roots, stop trying to control each other, and allow the free market to determine winners and losers rather than allowing government to skew the end result."
Jody Hamilton had not responded to the J&C by the print deadline.
Jaime Ortiz, District 3
Why are you running?
"I am running for county council because the government to spending too much money on things that are not constitutional."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"The top of my priority list is getting spending under control to lower or eliminate taxes. The biggest complaint I hear is property taxes. I’d like to get those down as much as possible. I’d also like to use the position to speak up and educate people about what the role of government really is and to show people that there are more than just two options when it comes to voting. As libertarians, we have a lot in common with both parties. I think we present the best aspects of both and put them into one party. Ironically the best aspects of both are what both parties hate about each other."
Why do you think you’re the best candidate for the position?
"I believe I’m the best suited for the position because I actually want to follow the constitution and vote for solutions to issues that are related to government. I'm for smaller government and I believe people know how to spend their money better than the government."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"I'm not sure what the most pressing issue is, I think there are several issues. A problem for me is figuring out what is the root cause of some of these issues and how to deal with them constitutionally. Like I said in a previous response I think a big issue we’re facing is ever-increasing property taxes due to local government spending our money on every pet project they can conceive, real crime going up in the county, and making government smaller and more transparent.
"My solution for increasing taxes is to vote to cut spending whenever I can. As far as crime goes, I’d like to do what I can to advocate for people to use their 2nd amendment right to protect their life, liberty, and property. I don’t believe it is a safe or good idea to outsource your safety to others - law enforcement - especially when the Supreme Court has ruled that they’re not obligated to help you when their life is potentially in danger as well. Cops are a reactionary force, they can’t be everywhere at once and crime will always occur. We have to take our safety into our own hands."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"I would like to see several things changed in the county. I’d like to see people’s attitudes change. I want them to not put as much faith into the government, become more self-determined, talk to their neighbors and get along with one another. As for the government, I’d obviously like a smaller and more fiscally responsible one. I actually mean that, unlike Republicans who run on that but end up spending just a little bit less than democrats. I’d also like to change the time of the council meetings from early Tuesday morning to later in the evening when most people are off work and can attend the meetings. I want it to be as accessible as possible to people can see what their money is going towards and so that they can have an opportunity to voice their concerns.
"I’d also like to stop or try to limit the use of eminent domain. While an argument can be made that it is constitutional to use it if it is for something that is constitutionally related to government, I find the use of it immoral. If it is wrong for us to use force and steal property that isn’t ours, the government should not do it either. Lastly, I’d like to have a recorded vote for the council so the people can see how their representatives voted and can ask them why they voted the way they did."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"If I do win this election I want to say that I honestly doubt I will be able to make any of the changes that need to be made. I believe I will find myself being the lone no-vote a majority of the time. There are a few issues that differentiate republicans and democrats but aside from that, they are pretty much the same. They’re both for big spending and big government. For me, winning this election is not so much about making changes but being given an opportunity to speak up, give an alternate view/opinion on issues, and earn the trust of the people for the Libertarian party and show them what the government is actually supposed to do."
Kathy Vernon, District 3
Why are you running?
"I want to continue to guard the taxpayers dollars by researching the issues, asking the tough questions and looking for alternative solutions."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"Funding of public safety including our courts and maintaining county fund balances to weather economic times."
Why do you think you’re the best candidate for the position?
"My experience on the County Council working with department heads as well as understanding the budget process. I have been able to ask the tough questions and communicate effectively which enables me to make the best decisions for the betterment of Tippecanoe County."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"The biggest challenge is funding of public safety including the courts as the county grows the needs for funding increase. I would deal with this issue by prioritizing and monitoring the needs regarding public safety. I would also develop and implement a 3-5 year strategic plan."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"I would like more emphasis on cross training of employees."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"I would appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve the tax payers of Tippecanoe County."
Lisa Dullum, District 4
Why are you running?
"The county council is the fiscal arm of county government and I have experience managing multi-million-dollar budgets at Hewlett Packard (HP) and Cummins Engine. I ran in 2018 to serve our community and to bring a new perspective to county government. I have successfully served on the council for the past four years and I want to continue making Tippecanoe County a great place to live."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"First, we need to be fiscally responsible and maintain the long-term fiscal health of the county. I would continue to make the tough decisions that have led to our current strong cash balance and a high bond rating while meeting community needs.
"Second, we need to thoughtfully invest the remainder of the $38M American Rescue Plan money the county received from the federal government. We have already allocated about half the funds to Food Finders food bank, broadband service for the entire county, infrastructure projects to attract new businesses, and recreation along the Wabash. With the remainder of the money, I would continue to invest in infrastructure projects like a new regional sewage district to help clean our water, as well as opportunities to address the growing mental health crisis."
Why do you think you’re the best candidate for the position?
"I think my current experience on the council, my previous work experience managing large budgets in a complex organization, and my involvement in local non-profit organizations have made me an effective councilor. I am always interested in listening and learning how we can improve our community."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"From my work on the council as well as the different non-profit organizations I serve on, I believe we face a crisis in mental health which includes, but is not limited to, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
"This is a society wide problem that needs to be addressed on multiple levels including by non-profits and the government. For example, Lafayette Daybreak Rotary, where I am a member, annually funds scholarships for future mental healthcare providers. In the county council we have an opportunity with the money from the opioid settlement and the American Rescue Plan to support existing programs as well as new solutions."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"To both save money and fight climate change, I would like to expand solar power at all our county government buildings. We are installing the first set of solar panels as part of the expansion at Community Corrections, and I would like to see that at all our facilities."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I am happy to answer questions about the county council at ldullum@tippecanoe.in.gov. You can also learn more about me and my campaign at www.dullumforcountycouncil.com.
Ryan Kennedy, District 4
Why are you running?
"I am proud of Tippecanoe County. We are a vibrant and diverse community, and we need to continue to foster and improve that environment. Because of that, I have chosen to locate my small business here and have my children be educated in our public schools. I am running to see us continue to build and improve what we have with a focus on the future."
What are your priorities for Tippecanoe County, should you be elected?
"First, we need to continue to ensure that our budget is balanced. As our county continues to experience growth, our departments deserve additional resources to provide vital services to our residents. Whether this is allocating funds for social service programs, mental health initiatives, tax rate adjustments, or authorizing new bonds, the County Council plays a critical role in the fiscal well-being of our community. With costs continuing to rise, municipalities will face challenges and I am ready to be part of the solution.
"Second, we need someone that has a vision for the future. I have that vision. I will support proper growth in areas that will allow us to not only maintain our current position but enhance it. The County Council will play a role by not only focusing on the present but looking into the future."
Why do you think you’re the best candidate for the position?
"First, as a small business owner, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility at a grass root level. We need someone that works in this community and understands what we are all facing daily. Investing the funds that we are responsible for and ensuring that there is a return on that investment is critical. When people work for large corporations the ramifications of their decisions aren’t necessarily realized right away. As a small business owner, the effects of those decisions are felt immediately. As President of BAGL, I have worked with my colleagues to transform our organization into an important economic engine of this County.
"My opponent has consistently voted against incentives for our local and industry partners. Their continued success is essential in keeping our tax rates low. Second, as a home builder for many years I have gained the experience and ability to work with various groups of people with different wants and needs. Third, I promise that the community will always come first. I will not give special treatment to friends or colleagues and attempt to shield them if something is not right. My opponent has let her friendship with the former Wabash Township Trustee come before her responsibility to the Wabash Township taxpayers. By continuing to support her friend instead of the people of her district, we all had to endure nearly two years of unnecessary expense and risk to the public. I believe no one is more important than the people of Tippecanoe County."
What do you think is the most pressing issue in Tippecanoe County, and how do you plan on addressing it?
"The most pressing issue we are currently facing is how to deal with our current growth while keeping our budget balanced. The County’s costs are rising and our need for more services is unprecedented. We need to make decisions today that will increase our tax base by encouraging the right kind of future growth. We can grow our tax base without raising taxes by encouraging industry to invest in our community.
"We need to be looking at what we can do to bring even more jobs to our area. What Purdue has been doing the last few years in the Innovation District will have an impact on our community for generations to come. We need to be ready and willing to welcome the businesses that have chosen Tippecanoe County as the place they wish to call home."
Is there anything in the County you would like to see changed, and why?
"I would like to see our county invest more in future infrastructure projects. We need to look at partnering with entities that currently provide water and wastewater services and determine the most efficient way to expand these services to eastern portion of the county. We also need to begin preparing our roadways for heavier and more frequent use. Working with all our stakeholders for what is best for our County is critical and I will be ready to make that a reality."
Is there anything else you would like to say?
"Earning your trust as a public servant for District 4 would be an honor. I promise to do what is best for our County and do it in a way that would make you proud. I humbly ask for your vote for District 4 County Council."
Margaret Christopherson is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email her at mchristopherson@jconline.com and follow her on Twitter @MargaretJC2.
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Tippecanoe County elections: Who's running and why?
