Candidates Respond to Times-Union Questionnaire
July 28, 2016 at 4:25 p.m.
By Jennifer [email protected]
1. Why are you seeking office?
2. What do you hope to accomplish?
3. What are issues important to you?
State Representative District 22
Curt Nisly – Republican
My campaign theme is “Free People Limit Government.” This is because I understand that the purpose of government is to protect the rights of the people, and it is the duty of the people to make sure this happens.
Several years ago, I was challenged by Edmund Burke's phrase, “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. Since then, I have educated myself and become involved in the political process to prepare myself for such a time as this. As state representative, my goal is to promote life, liberty and prosperity.
My top priority will be to listen to and respect the opinions of my constituents so I can accurately represent them in the Statehouse. I will fight to protect the freedoms of our people, our churches and our businesses.
The right to life is the most important issue. I came from a large family including two adopted sisters and 23 foster brothers and sisters. Every human life has value, beginning at conception.
The second amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed; I am an avid supporter of this right.
The people of the state of Indiana should be able to vote on an amendment to the state Constitution to define marriage as between one man and one woman.
David Kolbe – Democrat
I want to serve the people of this district. I believe I am the best qualified candidate for this office. I have all the necessary skills and experience for the position. I understand our district and am willing to do all I can in the best interest of the people.
I hope to enhance an attitude and practice of collaboration among legislators in the interest of the common good. I am not bound by rigid ideology and I am willing to work with democrats, republicans and independents. I hope to be an honorable representative for our district focusing on excellence, integrity and professionalism.
There are many important issues. The following are just a few: We must work toward the mutual goals of encouraging healthy businesses and good jobs. We need to insure that our infrastructure is upgraded and sound. We need to ensure that our public schools remain healthy and vibrant in educating our young people. I want to enhance the sense of pride we have in our district and the State of Indiana. I am the best candidate to face these and all other challenging issues.
Michael Stinfer – Independent
It is my civic duty to do so. I felt cheated. Curt Nisly, the Libertarian candidate running as a Republican refused a debate which would have helped me be aware of both candidate’s experiences and intelligence in order to properly vote in the 2014 primary. In fact, he still refuses to take a challenge and debate me on his "issues.”
Making sure that we are cutting the correct spending in order to secure education dollars so our children and teachers can thrive in their environments. Keep health care cost low and put money back into the pockets of Hoosiers who choose to live healthy lifestyles. Properly fund local governments without compromising the paychecks of Hoosiers. Introduce a healthy living tax credit for families who keep their healthcare costs down by being proactive and managing their health and wellness-which over the years will drop healthcare costs as a state and reduce the money we take from the federal government. Securing an HSA for every Hoosier which could double as a savings nest egg for their future or any Long Term Care expense. Offset the impact of Obamacare to the medical device industry by reducing sales and use tax on the manufacturing industry-take those dollars and reinvest in the critical skills needed for advance manufacturing training while the federal government finalizes and implements ACA. Have all taxpayers utilize a free electronic file system.
Sheriff
Patrick Jamison – Libertarian
I'm seeking the office of sheriff to provide the average, common person an opportunity to elect an actual representative from among the people.
One of the great things about the founding fathers of our republic is that they provided many checks and balances in government. The ability for the common person to run for the office of sheriff, is one of those. I've decided to run because I don't have confidence in federal, state or especially local governments to protect our liberties and our rights. Our rights are constantly under attack. As a member of the OathKeepers, I would like the opportunity to interposition myself between the people of this county, and anything, anyone, or any law that would rob the people of their constitutional rights and liberties. We seem to have a revolving monopoly of power in this county, and I'm here to challenge it. This monopoly of power into the hands of a few is dangerous to the freedoms of the individual, and of our republic. I do not believe that having career police officers to supervise "themselves" is the proper way to provide oversight or management into an office that belongs to the people. We often hear the words "liberty and justice" used together, but where is the "liberty system"? Everyone has heard of the "justice system". I'd like to reintroduce some liberty back into the justice system by fulfilling the oath I took years ago, first as a soldier, and then as a police officer. I'm running for the opportunity to defend our liberty and our Constitution.
The basic challenge of any Sheriff is to balance the publics safety while protecting individual liberties. We don't seem to hear many Sheriffs talk about protecting our liberties these days. I want to promote and encourage common people to know and exercise their rights. Self reliance promotes the strength of our nation and of our county. In cases of actual crime, where people have been hurt by another due to illegal or criminal activities,
I will expect complete investigations and an advancement toward justice. However, I do not care to promote "law enforcement for profit". I will attempt to use The People's resources as allotted by the County Council.
Aaron Rovenstine – Republican
My chosen profession is law enforcement in which I have spent the past 30 years. Being a lifetime citizen of Kosciusko County I would like to use my law enforcement experience and education to serve the people of our community.
After 30 years I’m still excited about going to work and meeting the challenges that face law enforcement in the community and managing the day in and day out operations of the sheriff’s department.
I know it’s a cliche but in law enforcement we are charged with the duty to “serve and protect” and we would like to do that to the best of our ability. How do we go about accomplishing that?
I think it starts with the hiring men and women of good character then making sure they receive the best training possible and equipping them with the good tools to perform their duties.
Then we must do our best to instill an attitude of balance between serving and protecting. The majority of people we deal with are just looking for some help in an unfortunate situation. They majority of people we deal with are just looking for some help in an unfortunate situation. They need to be treated with professionalism, courtesy and respect to help them the best we can.
One issue that we feel is very important is continuing the aggressive fight on drugs and alcohol. The overwhelming majority of inmates we have at the county jail are there on drug or alcohol related charges.
At times it feels like we are beating our heads against the wall in this never ending fight against substance abuse. We need all levels of the criminal justice system in our county to be on the same page working in the same direction.
I’m interested in seeing the results of the “Drug Court” which started this January? This court has had success in other counties and I applaud the efforts by the courts, the prosecutors office and probation in bringing the court to our community, hopefully with great results.
Travis Marsh – Independent
There are many issues facing the residents of Kosciusko. Budgeting issues are going to require some level of austerity to keep pace with the pending changes facing the Sheriff’s Department. We recognize the Kosciusko County Sheriff Department has a great deal of talent and hardworking officers who go above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis.
However, with any sophisticated machine, group, or organization there comes a time when an upgrade, refit, or audit is needed to provide an assessment which will lead to organizational improvements. We wish to maximize those talents and resources at the Sheriff’ Office and boost the overall morale through dynamic leadership
Accreditation, There is a great deal of aptitude at the department. This process takes a department to the next level of professionalism. Put more emphasis on community policing. We would make the Sheriff’s Department website fully functional and easy to navigate, populates with links to valuable programs that the assist the public. I hope to restore relations with all area police departments. There are communication issues facing the Kosciusko County law enforcement community.
Community, our entire county and those who visit and do business in Kosciusko County want and desire the most functional and pro-active law enforcement community possible. The drug problem we are facing is still troubling, and degrading on our community(s). Fiscal responsibility the reality is that our budgets are not only getting smaller out tax burden is increasing for the county to just get the job done.
Commissioner-Southern District
Bob Conley – Republican
As the incumbent I pledge to continue on the path we have already embarked upon. Keep our veteran of the month program moving forward. Work with all sectors of our county and small towns to keep our unemployment rate low and incentivize companies already located in our county to continue to grow and prosper. Which will keep our tax rates low and other companies will look at Kosciuko County and say"what makes them so attractive?"
I pledge to continue to bring honesty, integrity, dependability, experience and cooperation and considerate service for all the people of Kosciusko county assisting our citizens in any way possible. Continuing with open,public meetings, accessibility to me as their representative through my e-mail ([email protected]) My web page (bobconley.us) or by telephone 574-551-3871 and the county web sight(kcgov.com) any county information can be accessed through the website such as meeting dates,times,minutes of meetings, department heads etc., please take time to visit our Kosciusko County website.
Probably the biggest issue is to put to good use the revenue garnered from the implementation of the wheel tax, we (highway dept.) for years have done a good job with maintenance of our roads, however this last winter as we all know took its toll on our roads. Another issue that is at issue is the potential of job adjustments with the merger of two of the community’s orthopedic firms. And how we look at the use of tax abatement.
I want to continue to do my part in keeping Kosciusko County the best place to be in Indiana.
Gale Owens – Democrat
I hope to put a voice back to the people of this county and to get control of the budget.
Stop the added taxes being put on the working class, utilize grands to off set the cost of lost revenue and diversify our businesses in our county.
Set stricter guide lines for tax abatement's. If companies are making millions plus, and are giving big bonuses to CEO's and other exec's they don't need abatement's, especially when our county is a million plus in debt.
Some of these guide lines should include: full time employees should be a percentage of at least 85 percent of their workforce. Part time employees don't contribute to the economy because they cant have a budget when they don't know what their income is going to be from week to week or feel that they have any job security.
The reason for buying new equipment to potentially employ X-amount of new employees should be monitored to do just that. Not be used to "streamline" which leads to lays off's .
Tax abatement's where started to help companies get started , not to sub-stain them while we, the working class are having added taxes.
County Council-District 4
John Garber – Republican
Retiring at the end of December 2011, after 43 years of public service to the citizens of Warsaw (23 years as Superintendent of Parks and Recreation), I stated "that although I was retiring from employment with the City of Warsaw, I am not 'retiring' from my commitment and dedication to this community". Additionally, I wanted to be able to give back to a community for which it was an honor to serve. In May of 2012, I was elected by caucus to fill the unexpired term of Fourth District Councilman John Kinsey, who died in office. I believe that I have the experience and dedication needed to represent the citizen of the 4th District, and the larger community – Kosciusko County.
Much has been accomplished while maintaining Kosciusko County as the number 1 ranked county in the state of Indiana as having the lowest total county certified tax rate (source: Association of Indiana Counties – 2014, 29th Annual County Fact book).
The county council will need to continually search for innovative means to fund the growing service needs of the county. When I announced my candidacy for the May primary, I pledged “to work toward the continuation of efficient and effective government, promoting ‘needs’ over ‘wants’ when addressing fiscal matters that come before the County Council”.
I reaffirm that pledge.
Those issues are: 1. educating and training our current workforce on new technology and practices; 2. providing and upgrading county infrastructure; and 3. offering incentive to businesses and industries to locate to Kosciusko County, growing our economic base.
Dan Damron – Democrat
I am retired from the Indiana State Department of Transportation and am a small business owner. I feel I have first hand knowledge of problems many of us face and would like to help find solutions to theses problems that would benefit all of us.
Better communication with the public (both ways). Many of our residents have good ideas and we need to listen to everyone.
I would like to see our business expand beyond Orthopedics and help grow our tourism business also.
County Highway maintenance. Our equipment is old and is harder to keep repairing. We need to look at ways to keep our trucks, etc. Upgraded so they spend more time working and less time in repair. Public safety is affected when our snow removal is delayed because of breakdowns.
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1. Why are you seeking office?
2. What do you hope to accomplish?
3. What are issues important to you?
State Representative District 22
Curt Nisly – Republican
My campaign theme is “Free People Limit Government.” This is because I understand that the purpose of government is to protect the rights of the people, and it is the duty of the people to make sure this happens.
Several years ago, I was challenged by Edmund Burke's phrase, “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. Since then, I have educated myself and become involved in the political process to prepare myself for such a time as this. As state representative, my goal is to promote life, liberty and prosperity.
My top priority will be to listen to and respect the opinions of my constituents so I can accurately represent them in the Statehouse. I will fight to protect the freedoms of our people, our churches and our businesses.
The right to life is the most important issue. I came from a large family including two adopted sisters and 23 foster brothers and sisters. Every human life has value, beginning at conception.
The second amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed; I am an avid supporter of this right.
The people of the state of Indiana should be able to vote on an amendment to the state Constitution to define marriage as between one man and one woman.
David Kolbe – Democrat
I want to serve the people of this district. I believe I am the best qualified candidate for this office. I have all the necessary skills and experience for the position. I understand our district and am willing to do all I can in the best interest of the people.
I hope to enhance an attitude and practice of collaboration among legislators in the interest of the common good. I am not bound by rigid ideology and I am willing to work with democrats, republicans and independents. I hope to be an honorable representative for our district focusing on excellence, integrity and professionalism.
There are many important issues. The following are just a few: We must work toward the mutual goals of encouraging healthy businesses and good jobs. We need to insure that our infrastructure is upgraded and sound. We need to ensure that our public schools remain healthy and vibrant in educating our young people. I want to enhance the sense of pride we have in our district and the State of Indiana. I am the best candidate to face these and all other challenging issues.
Michael Stinfer – Independent
It is my civic duty to do so. I felt cheated. Curt Nisly, the Libertarian candidate running as a Republican refused a debate which would have helped me be aware of both candidate’s experiences and intelligence in order to properly vote in the 2014 primary. In fact, he still refuses to take a challenge and debate me on his "issues.”
Making sure that we are cutting the correct spending in order to secure education dollars so our children and teachers can thrive in their environments. Keep health care cost low and put money back into the pockets of Hoosiers who choose to live healthy lifestyles. Properly fund local governments without compromising the paychecks of Hoosiers. Introduce a healthy living tax credit for families who keep their healthcare costs down by being proactive and managing their health and wellness-which over the years will drop healthcare costs as a state and reduce the money we take from the federal government. Securing an HSA for every Hoosier which could double as a savings nest egg for their future or any Long Term Care expense. Offset the impact of Obamacare to the medical device industry by reducing sales and use tax on the manufacturing industry-take those dollars and reinvest in the critical skills needed for advance manufacturing training while the federal government finalizes and implements ACA. Have all taxpayers utilize a free electronic file system.
Sheriff
Patrick Jamison – Libertarian
I'm seeking the office of sheriff to provide the average, common person an opportunity to elect an actual representative from among the people.
One of the great things about the founding fathers of our republic is that they provided many checks and balances in government. The ability for the common person to run for the office of sheriff, is one of those. I've decided to run because I don't have confidence in federal, state or especially local governments to protect our liberties and our rights. Our rights are constantly under attack. As a member of the OathKeepers, I would like the opportunity to interposition myself between the people of this county, and anything, anyone, or any law that would rob the people of their constitutional rights and liberties. We seem to have a revolving monopoly of power in this county, and I'm here to challenge it. This monopoly of power into the hands of a few is dangerous to the freedoms of the individual, and of our republic. I do not believe that having career police officers to supervise "themselves" is the proper way to provide oversight or management into an office that belongs to the people. We often hear the words "liberty and justice" used together, but where is the "liberty system"? Everyone has heard of the "justice system". I'd like to reintroduce some liberty back into the justice system by fulfilling the oath I took years ago, first as a soldier, and then as a police officer. I'm running for the opportunity to defend our liberty and our Constitution.
The basic challenge of any Sheriff is to balance the publics safety while protecting individual liberties. We don't seem to hear many Sheriffs talk about protecting our liberties these days. I want to promote and encourage common people to know and exercise their rights. Self reliance promotes the strength of our nation and of our county. In cases of actual crime, where people have been hurt by another due to illegal or criminal activities,
I will expect complete investigations and an advancement toward justice. However, I do not care to promote "law enforcement for profit". I will attempt to use The People's resources as allotted by the County Council.
Aaron Rovenstine – Republican
My chosen profession is law enforcement in which I have spent the past 30 years. Being a lifetime citizen of Kosciusko County I would like to use my law enforcement experience and education to serve the people of our community.
After 30 years I’m still excited about going to work and meeting the challenges that face law enforcement in the community and managing the day in and day out operations of the sheriff’s department.
I know it’s a cliche but in law enforcement we are charged with the duty to “serve and protect” and we would like to do that to the best of our ability. How do we go about accomplishing that?
I think it starts with the hiring men and women of good character then making sure they receive the best training possible and equipping them with the good tools to perform their duties.
Then we must do our best to instill an attitude of balance between serving and protecting. The majority of people we deal with are just looking for some help in an unfortunate situation. They majority of people we deal with are just looking for some help in an unfortunate situation. They need to be treated with professionalism, courtesy and respect to help them the best we can.
One issue that we feel is very important is continuing the aggressive fight on drugs and alcohol. The overwhelming majority of inmates we have at the county jail are there on drug or alcohol related charges.
At times it feels like we are beating our heads against the wall in this never ending fight against substance abuse. We need all levels of the criminal justice system in our county to be on the same page working in the same direction.
I’m interested in seeing the results of the “Drug Court” which started this January? This court has had success in other counties and I applaud the efforts by the courts, the prosecutors office and probation in bringing the court to our community, hopefully with great results.
Travis Marsh – Independent
There are many issues facing the residents of Kosciusko. Budgeting issues are going to require some level of austerity to keep pace with the pending changes facing the Sheriff’s Department. We recognize the Kosciusko County Sheriff Department has a great deal of talent and hardworking officers who go above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis.
However, with any sophisticated machine, group, or organization there comes a time when an upgrade, refit, or audit is needed to provide an assessment which will lead to organizational improvements. We wish to maximize those talents and resources at the Sheriff’ Office and boost the overall morale through dynamic leadership
Accreditation, There is a great deal of aptitude at the department. This process takes a department to the next level of professionalism. Put more emphasis on community policing. We would make the Sheriff’s Department website fully functional and easy to navigate, populates with links to valuable programs that the assist the public. I hope to restore relations with all area police departments. There are communication issues facing the Kosciusko County law enforcement community.
Community, our entire county and those who visit and do business in Kosciusko County want and desire the most functional and pro-active law enforcement community possible. The drug problem we are facing is still troubling, and degrading on our community(s). Fiscal responsibility the reality is that our budgets are not only getting smaller out tax burden is increasing for the county to just get the job done.
Commissioner-Southern District
Bob Conley – Republican
As the incumbent I pledge to continue on the path we have already embarked upon. Keep our veteran of the month program moving forward. Work with all sectors of our county and small towns to keep our unemployment rate low and incentivize companies already located in our county to continue to grow and prosper. Which will keep our tax rates low and other companies will look at Kosciuko County and say"what makes them so attractive?"
I pledge to continue to bring honesty, integrity, dependability, experience and cooperation and considerate service for all the people of Kosciusko county assisting our citizens in any way possible. Continuing with open,public meetings, accessibility to me as their representative through my e-mail ([email protected]) My web page (bobconley.us) or by telephone 574-551-3871 and the county web sight(kcgov.com) any county information can be accessed through the website such as meeting dates,times,minutes of meetings, department heads etc., please take time to visit our Kosciusko County website.
Probably the biggest issue is to put to good use the revenue garnered from the implementation of the wheel tax, we (highway dept.) for years have done a good job with maintenance of our roads, however this last winter as we all know took its toll on our roads. Another issue that is at issue is the potential of job adjustments with the merger of two of the community’s orthopedic firms. And how we look at the use of tax abatement.
I want to continue to do my part in keeping Kosciusko County the best place to be in Indiana.
Gale Owens – Democrat
I hope to put a voice back to the people of this county and to get control of the budget.
Stop the added taxes being put on the working class, utilize grands to off set the cost of lost revenue and diversify our businesses in our county.
Set stricter guide lines for tax abatement's. If companies are making millions plus, and are giving big bonuses to CEO's and other exec's they don't need abatement's, especially when our county is a million plus in debt.
Some of these guide lines should include: full time employees should be a percentage of at least 85 percent of their workforce. Part time employees don't contribute to the economy because they cant have a budget when they don't know what their income is going to be from week to week or feel that they have any job security.
The reason for buying new equipment to potentially employ X-amount of new employees should be monitored to do just that. Not be used to "streamline" which leads to lays off's .
Tax abatement's where started to help companies get started , not to sub-stain them while we, the working class are having added taxes.
County Council-District 4
John Garber – Republican
Retiring at the end of December 2011, after 43 years of public service to the citizens of Warsaw (23 years as Superintendent of Parks and Recreation), I stated "that although I was retiring from employment with the City of Warsaw, I am not 'retiring' from my commitment and dedication to this community". Additionally, I wanted to be able to give back to a community for which it was an honor to serve. In May of 2012, I was elected by caucus to fill the unexpired term of Fourth District Councilman John Kinsey, who died in office. I believe that I have the experience and dedication needed to represent the citizen of the 4th District, and the larger community – Kosciusko County.
Much has been accomplished while maintaining Kosciusko County as the number 1 ranked county in the state of Indiana as having the lowest total county certified tax rate (source: Association of Indiana Counties – 2014, 29th Annual County Fact book).
The county council will need to continually search for innovative means to fund the growing service needs of the county. When I announced my candidacy for the May primary, I pledged “to work toward the continuation of efficient and effective government, promoting ‘needs’ over ‘wants’ when addressing fiscal matters that come before the County Council”.
I reaffirm that pledge.
Those issues are: 1. educating and training our current workforce on new technology and practices; 2. providing and upgrading county infrastructure; and 3. offering incentive to businesses and industries to locate to Kosciusko County, growing our economic base.
Dan Damron – Democrat
I am retired from the Indiana State Department of Transportation and am a small business owner. I feel I have first hand knowledge of problems many of us face and would like to help find solutions to theses problems that would benefit all of us.
Better communication with the public (both ways). Many of our residents have good ideas and we need to listen to everyone.
I would like to see our business expand beyond Orthopedics and help grow our tourism business also.
County Highway maintenance. Our equipment is old and is harder to keep repairing. We need to look at ways to keep our trucks, etc. Upgraded so they spend more time working and less time in repair. Public safety is affected when our snow removal is delayed because of breakdowns.
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