The chief deputy in the Kosciusko County Auditor’s Office will be the next auditor as the Republican caucus chose Alyssa Schmucker Thursday evening to fill the position.
She was elected over Etna Green Clerk-Treasurer Patti Cook.
The caucus was called after current County Auditor Rhonda Helser submitted her resignation in July, effective Aug. 31.
In her speech after winning the caucus, Schmucker thanked former auditor and current County Treasurer Michelle Puckett and her chief deputy “for the confidence that they had that I could learn the very complicated and detailed processes of the auditor that are required by the state of Indiana. They are part of the reason that I’m standing here tonight.”
Schmucker thanked Helser for having faith in her and letting her serve as chief deputy, as well as the support she has given her.
“I would also like to thank everyone who took the time tonight to attend the caucus to make tonight happen,” she said. “I appreciate the words of encouragement, and support that I’ve received from co-workers, family and friends. I’m ready to dedicate the needed time to perform the duties of the Kosciusko County auditor.”
She said she and Helser will continue to work together to ensure a seamless transition as Helser leaves the office.
“I am a true public servant and I am eager to serve the public and Kosciusko County as the next auditor. I will do my best to continue to develop good working relationships with the other elected officials and department heads of Kosciusko County while performing the duties of the auditor. Thank you very much,” she concluded.
Kosciusko County Central Republican Committee Chair Mike Ragan said there are 65 precinct committeemen in Kosciusko County, with 64 eligible to vote in Thursday’s caucus. One moved out of their district after they were elected. Of the 64, 56 attended the caucus to vote.
In her three-minute speech to the caucus, Schmucker said she joined the auditor’s office eight years ago and was hired by Puckett. Schmucker served as Helser’s chief deputy since Helser took office as auditor Jan. 1, 2023.
After listing her duties as the chief deputy, Schmucker also explained the role of the auditor.
“I have a good working relationship with the other county offices and the nine current auditor’s office staff members. I have experience managing employees in my past role as the North Webster EMS director. I have the knowledge and ability to guide employees and to speak to taxpayers who may be having a bad day,” she said.
Schmucker said she will dedicate the needed time to perform the duties of the auditor, just as she had as chief deputy.
Her experience in other local government includes working in the Tippecanoe Township Assessor’s Office and serving as the Tippecanoe Township trustee for a term.
A lifelong North Webster resident, she graduated from Wawasee High School and has been a certified EMT for 33 years. She’s a member of the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory EMS Division.
“Taking care of the sick and the injured and their family is something that I hold dear to my heart,” she said.
Her active volunteerism includes the North Webster Lions Club and the American Legion Auxiliary Club, serving as president for three consecutive years.
She has two grown children who are married and four granddaughters.
“I believe I am the most qualified candidate to serve as the auditor with my knowledge and I hope that you will feel the same way by honoring my desire to be a dedicated public servant for Kosciusko County,” she stated.
After Cook spoke and while votes were being counted, Helser addressed the crowd.
“I just wanted to thank you all for taking the time to come here tonight. It means a lot. I especially want to thank the girls in the auditor’s office because they showed me a lot of stuff I didn’t know before I became auditor. There’s a lot of moving parts in that office,” she said.
Helser said she appreciated all their help and her mentors - Sue Ann Mitchell, Michelle Puckett, Schmucker and Becky Dye.
Helser stated she is not sick, she just decided it was her time to be done and retire. She plans to spend more time with her family, her husband and her grandchildren while still supporting the county.
“I’m still going to be around,” she said. “I’m just appreciative of everybody’s help and support going forward.”