Candidate Q&A

How do you plan to reach out to constituents about what their needs are?

As many residents in the township already know, I’ve been out meeting constituents across the township. I’ve been listening to what people want from the Constable’s office and across government, in general.

One thing I keep hearing is people want more visibility and responsiveness. I believe the Constable should be visible, accessible, and present in our community. I consider myself a listener, not a politician. I am old school, in the sense that boots on the ground, a firm handshake, and a recognizable face still holds weight in what you want with your elected constable. Talk to me. As a problem-solver, I am not just law enforcement but an advocate for you, as you are my community. I also plan to implement, immediately, contact information for my office that is accessible to the public.

What is the top issue facing your district that you think you would have the power to address as constable?

The issues are simple, but impactful, being accessible and being accountable to the residents. I’m not running to hold a position, I’m building a modern constable’s office, based on real community needs. You’ll see me. You’ll know me and you’ll have access to me. If papers aren’t served correctly, I’ll fix it. If you are trying to get to a hold of the township constable, you’ll be able to. If you need to be pointed in the right direction, you will get answers. This is why I plan to implement a “Community Advisory Circle,” which will include HOA leaders, engaged business owners, parents, and church/community leaders. This will be key to helping engage all members of the community and will help shape the future of the Decatur Township Constable’s office.

What role does a good constable play in township government?

A constable sits in a unique position to connect residents, courts, law enforcement agencies, and township leaders. The constable isn’t just a title-holder or process server, they should be one of the most accessible, community-facing public safety officials in our township government. When done right, the constable becomes a bridge between the courts, law enforcement, and the people. The constable communicates trends and concerns upward, helps residents understand processes, ensures people don’t feel ignored or lost in the system, and helps reinforce a visible deterrent presence in the community.

One issue we hear consistently is that people aren’t properly served. What efforts would you make to serve legal paperwork to people?

Based on what I’ve seen at the federal and local level, I know small issues, when ignored, turn into bigger problems. It all begins at breaking down the process and seeing what works versus what doesn’t.

There is an obvious disconnect, whether it is policies and procedures that need revision or bringing accountability to the surface, to see who or what is responsible.

As constable, I would bring a professional, consistent approach to service. That means making multiple, well-timed attempts, documenting efforts thoroughly using a variety of different, and ensuring service is done legally and correctly the first time.

One of my goals is to review and modernize the process by using better tracking, communication, and coordination, so there’s accountability and transparency. At the end of the day, people deserve a system that works, and that starts with getting back to the basics.

How would you vet deputy constables?

You don’t build a strong constable’s office by handing out positions, you build it by selecting the right people. I’m not interested in making appointments based on connections. I’m building a team that’s trained and capable of serving the public the right way. I lead from the front and would not ask any of my staff to do anything I haven’t done. Deputy constables will have passed an extensive single scope background check. All deputy constables will have or be able to acquire the proper credentials and standards, as set forth by Indiana law. Most importantly, each deputy constable will be able to deal with the public in a respectful way. Each deputy constable is an extension of the office and public trust and they will be represented as such.