Voter Guide - Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library

Federal & National

1 race

U.S. House of Representatives — Indiana 8th District D·R

Mary Allen Democrat

Occupation

Co-Owner, Virginia Street Properties

Community service

Army Reserve Veteran
Chair, Board of Directors, Enterprise Zone
Member, Vanderburgh County Solid Waste Board
Member, Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization
Founder, Haynie's Corner Art District Association
Member, Rotary International

Elected offices held

Evansville City Council (At-Large), 2024–present

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook Instagram YouTube BlueSky TikTok Threads

Mark Messmer Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Engineer and Former Owner of Messmer Mechanical in Jasper, Indiana

Community service

Mark and his wife, Kim, are active members of Holy Family Catholic Church, including:

Music Minister
Parish Council
Holy Family School Board
Cursillo Program

Elected offices held

Indiana State Representative; Indiana State Senator; United States Congressman

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook X

2026 salary: Approximately $174,000

What is this office?

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives write and vote on federal laws, approve federal spending, conduct oversight of the executive branch, and represent the interests of their constituents in Washington, D.C. Each member represents roughly 760,000 residents.

Why this office matters

Members of the House help decide how the federal government spends money, what federal laws are enacted, and how federal agencies are overseen. Their decisions can affect everything from veterans’ benefits and farm programs to highway funding, health care, and tax policy.

You’ll contact this office if

You need help with the Social Security Administration.
You’re having problems with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Your passport application is delayed.
You’re dealing with a federal immigration case.
You want to express your opinion about proposed federal legislation.
You need assistance with another federal agency.

Primary responsibilities

Draft, sponsor, and vote on federal legislation.
Vote on the federal budget and appropriations bills.
Conduct oversight of federal agencies through hearings and investigations.
Represent constituents’ interests in Congress.
Assist constituents in dealing with federal agencies (often called “constituent services”).
Serve on congressional committees that shape legislation.
Vote on declarations of war, trade agreements, and other major policy decisions.

Area represented: Southwestern Indiana, including Evansville and surrounding communities

State Races

8 races

Indiana Senate — District 47 D·R

Cindi Clayton Democrat

Occupation

Senior Instructor in Business Communication, University of Southern Indiana

Community service

Board Chair, Holly's House (11 years)
Member, NAACP
Associate Member, UMWA
Member, River City Pride
Volunteer, Immigrant Resource Welcome Center
Volunteer, Keep Evansville Beautiful

Elected offices held

N/A

Campaign website

Jim Tomes Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Retired — 33-year career as a Teamster truck driver

Community service

U.S. Army veteran, 101st Airborne Division, Vietnam War
Teamster Union Steward, 21 years
Former Commander, Wadesville VFW Post 6576
Eucharistic minister, St. Wendel Catholic Church
Member, Knights of St. John
USI Board of Advisors, College of Nursing and Health Professions
Director, 2nd Amendment Patriots
Board member, National Rifle Association

Elected offices held

Indiana State Senator, District 49 (2010–present)

Campaign website Facebook X

2026 salary: Approximately $31,000

What is this office?

Members of the Indiana State Senate write and vote on state laws, approve Indiana’s two-year state budget, oversee state government through committees, and represent the interests of their districts in the Indiana General Assembly.

Why this office matters

State senators determine funding for schools, transportation, public safety, health care, and economic development, and vote on laws covering taxes, criminal justice, elections, utilities, environmental policy, and business regulation.

Qualifications

U.S. citizen, at least 25 years old
Lived in Indiana at least two years before the election
Lived in the district at least one year before the election

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Most of Vanderburgh County

Indiana Secretary of State D·R·L

Beau Bayh Democrat

Campaign finance filings

Max Engling Republican

Campaign finance filings

Lauri Shillings Libertarian

Occupation

Creative Director, University of Indianapolis

Community service

Bachelor's Degree in Community and Nonprofit Leadership
Certificate in Servant Leadership from Montgomery County Leadership Academy
Chairwoman, Hamilton County Libertarian Party

Elected offices held

None

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook X Instagram YouTube

2026 salary: Approximately $133,628

What is this office?

The Indiana Secretary of State is a statewide elected official responsible for overseeing several functions of state government. The individual holding the office serves as Indiana’s chief elections officer, while the office is organized into four primary divisions:

Elections,
Business Services,
Securities, and
Auto Dealer Services.

It also commissions notaries public and registers trademarks.

Why this office matters

The Secretary of State oversees systems that affect how Hoosiers vote, establish and operate businesses, invest money, and buy vehicles from licensed dealers.

The office plays an important role in administering Indiana elections and maintaining election-related systems and information. Its regulatory responsibilities also include protecting investors and enforcing state securities laws, maintaining business records, and licensing and regulating vehicle dealers.

You’ll contact this office if

You want information about registering to vote or Indiana elections.
You want to start or register a business in Indiana.
You need to file or update certain business records.
You want to become a commissioned notary public.
You want to register a trademark with the state.
You have a complaint or question involving securities or investments.
You need information about a motor vehicle dealer or dealer license.
You want to file a complaint involving a licensed vehicle dealer.

Primary responsibilities

Serve as Indiana’s chief elections officer and oversee the Election Division.
Oversee state election administration and provide election information and resources to voters, candidates, and local election officials.
Maintain business filings and register new businesses through the Business Services Division.
Commission notaries public and register state trademarks.
Regulate securities offerings and securities professionals and enforce Indiana securities laws.
Investigate securities-related violations and provide investor education and fraud-prevention resources.
License and regulate motor vehicle dealers and related businesses.
Maintain certain official state records and carry out other duties assigned by Indiana law.

Qualifications

To serve as Indiana Secretary of State, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter in Indiana by the applicable candidacy filing deadline.
Meet the eligibility requirements for holding public office under Indiana law.
Not have already served as Secretary of State for more than eight years during any 12-year period.

Geographic area represented

The Secretary of State is elected by voters throughout Indiana and serves the entire state.

Unlike legislators, the Secretary of State does not represent a particular district. The office’s election administration, business registration, securities regulation, and dealer licensing responsibilities apply statewide.

Term: 4 years Area represented: Statewide

Indiana State Comptroller D·R·L

Jessica Bailey Democrat

Campaign finance filings

Elise Nieshalla Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

John Schick Libertarian

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $133,628

What is this office?

The Indiana State Comptroller (formerly known as the State Auditor) is the state’s chief financial officer. The office keeps Indiana’s financial records, pays the state’s bills and employees, and distributes tax revenue owed to counties, cities, towns, schools, and other local governments.

Indiana changed the title from State Auditor to State Comptroller in 2023; the elected office and its constitutional role remained the same.

Why this office matters

The State Comptroller helps manage the flow of billions of dollars through Indiana state government.

The office accounts for state revenues and expenditures and produces financial reports showing Indiana’s financial condition. It distributes money collected by the state to local governments and schools, and administers the systems used to pay state employees and state government bills.

The Comptroller also operates the Indiana Transparency Portal, which gives the public access to information about state spending, revenues, assets, contracts, and employee compensation.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to look up state spending, revenues, contracts, or employee salaries.
You have a question about a payment issued by the State of Indiana.
You are a state employee with a payroll-related question.
You represent a local government and have questions about state tax distributions.
You need information from Indiana’s official financial reports.
You participate in the state’s Hoosier START deferred compensation program.
You want to request public financial information maintained by the Comptroller’s Office.

Primary responsibilities

Maintain Indiana’s official accounting records and account for state funds.
Pay bills and other obligations owed by the State of Indiana.
Administer payroll for state employees.
Calculate, oversee, and distribute tax revenues owed to counties, cities, towns, schools, and other local governments.
Prepare the state’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and other financial reports.
Operate the Indiana Transparency Portal, providing public access to state financial information.
Administer the Hoosier START deferred compensation plan for public employees.
Serve on the Indiana State Board of Finance, which supervises the state’s fiscal affairs and has authority over certain transfers, loans, and state depositories.

Qualifications

To serve as Indiana State Comptroller, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter in Indiana.
Meet the eligibility requirements for holding public office under Indiana law.
Not have already served in the office for more than eight years during any 12-year period.

Geographic area represented

The State Comptroller is elected by voters throughout Indiana and serves the entire state.

Unlike members of the General Assembly or Congress, the Comptroller does not represent a particular geographic district. The office manages financial functions for Indiana state government and distributes state-collected revenues to local governments throughout all 92 counties.

Term: 4 years Area represented: Statewide

Indiana Treasurer of State R·D

Daniel Elliott Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

Coumba Kebe Democrat

Occupation

Healthcare Executive and Public Health Professional

Community service

Actively engaged in the community through civic, professional, and public service efforts focused on improving health outcomes, expanding opportunity, and strengthening communities.
Worked alongside community leaders and organizations to advocate for policies and systems that better serve Indiana families.

Elected offices held

None

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook Instagram TikTok

2026 salary: Approximately $133,628

What is this office?

The Indiana Treasurer of State is a statewide elected official who serves as the state’s chief investment officer and banker.

The Treasurer is responsible for safeguarding and investing state funds and providing banking and cash-management services for state government. The office also oversees or participates in several state financial programs and authorities.

The Treasurer currently oversees the management of more than $16 billion on a daily basis.

Why this office matters

The Treasurer helps determine how Indiana’s available public money is invested while it is held by the state. Those investments can generate significant interest income for state government while preserving funds needed to pay the state’s obligations.

The office also has responsibilities that reach beyond state investments. The Treasurer chairs or participates in organizations dealing with local-government financing, 911 funding, education savings, disability savings, public deposits, pensions and other areas of state finance.

You’ll contact this office if

You have questions about Indiana’s investment of state funds.
You are a local government official interested in investing public funds through TrustINdiana.
You need information about state-supported education savings programs.
You need information about Indiana’s ABLE savings program for people with disabilities.
You are looking for financial education resources offered through the Treasurer’s Office.
You want financial reports or public records maintained by the Treasurer.
You have questions about one of the financial programs or authorities administered through the office.

Primary responsibilities

Safeguard and invest money held by the State of Indiana.
Serve as Indiana’s chief investment officer and provide banking and cash-management services for state government.
Manage TrustINdiana, an investment pool that allows Indiana local governments to collectively invest public funds.
Serve as chair of the Indiana Bond Bank, which helps local governments obtain financing for public projects and equipment.
Serve as chair of the Statewide 911 Board, which oversees the collection and distribution of 911 fees.
Serve as chair of the Indiana Education Savings Authority.
Serve as chair of the Indiana ABLE Authority, which oversees the state’s INvestABLE Indiana savings program.
Serve as sole trustee of the Indiana State Police Pension Trust.
Serve on numerous other state boards, commissions and financial authorities.

Qualifications

To serve as Indiana Treasurer of State, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter in Indiana.
Meet the eligibility requirements for holding public office under Indiana law.
Not have already served as Treasurer for more than eight years during any 12-year period.

Geographic area represented

The Treasurer of State is elected by voters throughout Indiana and serves the entire state.

Unlike legislators, the Treasurer does not represent a particular district. The office manages state investments and financial programs that serve state agencies, local governments and residents throughout all 92 Indiana counties.

Term: 4 years Area represented: Statewide

Indiana House — District 64 D·R

Candace "Candy" Greer Democrat

Occupation

Property Manager

Community service

No response

Elected offices held

Precinct Committee Chair — Democrat Party; State Party Convention Delegate — Democrat Party

Campaign finance filings Facebook TikTok

Matt Hostettler Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $31,000

What is this office?

Members of the Indiana House of Representatives write and vote on state laws, approve Indiana’s two-year state budget, oversee state government, and represent the interests of their local districts in the Indiana General Assembly.

The House is the larger chamber of the Indiana General Assembly, with 100 members representing districts of roughly equal population across the state.

Why this office matters

Representatives vote on laws governing education, public safety, health care, taxes, transportation, elections, environmental policy, and many other issues.

The House also plays a central role in writing the state’s two-year budget, determining how taxpayer dollars are spent on schools, roads, public health, public safety, higher education, and other state services.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express your opinion on proposed Indiana legislation.
You have concerns about state laws or regulations.
You need help working with a state agency.
You have questions about state funding for local programs.
You want to request changes to Indiana law.
You need assistance navigating state government services.

Primary responsibilities

Draft, sponsor, and vote on state legislation.
Vote on Indiana’s two-year state budget.
Serve on legislative committees that review and amend bills.
Conduct oversight of state agencies and programs.
Represent the interests of constituents within their legislative district.
Confirm certain gubernatorial appointments when required by law through the legislative process.
Work with state agencies, local governments, businesses, and community organizations on issues affecting their district.

Qualifications

To serve in the Indiana House of Representatives, a candidate must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have lived in Indiana for at least two years before the election.
Have lived in the legislative district they seek to represent for at least one year before the election.

Geographic area represented

Each Indiana House member represents one legislative district within the state. District boundaries are drawn to contain approximately equal populations and are redrawn every 10 years following the U.S. Census.

Several Indiana House districts include portions of Vanderburgh County. Each voter is represented by one Indiana House member based on where they live.

Term: 2 years, no term limits Area represented: Legislative District 64

Indiana House — District 76 R·D

Wendy McNamara Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Early College Director, Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation

Community service

Chair, Courts and Criminal Code Committee
Interim Chair, Public Health, Behavioral Health, and Human Services Committee
Active involvement with local education, higher education, workforce-development, and community organizations
Member, Justice Reinvestment Advisory Council (JRAC)
Member, Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Board of Trustees (non-voting member)
JRAC Legislative Workgroup - Competency to Stand Trial Task Force

Elected offices held

Indiana State Representative, District 76 — 2010–present

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook X

Logan Patberg Democrat

Occupation

Public School Science Teacher

Community service

Evansville Teachers Association Board
Chair, Evansville Teachers Association Advocacy Committee
Active in efforts to connect residents with resources and opportunities to advocate for public education

Elected offices held

None

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook Instagram

2026 salary: Approximately $31,000

What is this office?

The House is the larger chamber of the Indiana General Assembly, with 100 members representing districts of roughly equal population across the state.

Why this office matters

Representatives vote on laws governing education, public safety, health care, taxes, transportation, elections, environmental policy, and many other issues.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express your opinion on proposed Indiana legislation.
You have concerns about state laws or regulations.
You need help working with a state agency.
You have questions about state funding for local programs.
You want to request changes to Indiana law.
You need assistance navigating state government services.

Primary responsibilities

Draft, sponsor, and vote on state legislation.
Vote on Indiana’s two-year state budget.
Serve on legislative committees that review and amend bills.
Conduct oversight of state agencies and programs.
Represent the interests of constituents within their legislative district.
Confirm certain gubernatorial appointments when required by law through the legislative process.
Work with state agencies, local governments, businesses, and community organizations on issues affecting their district.

Qualifications

To serve in the Indiana House of Representatives, a candidate must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have lived in Indiana for at least two years before the election.
Have lived in the legislative district they seek to represent for at least one year before the election.

Geographic area represented

Several Indiana House districts include portions of Vanderburgh County. Each voter is represented by one Indiana House member based on where they live.

Term: 2 years, no term limits Area represented: Legislative District 76

Indiana House — District 77 D

Alex Burton Democrat Incumbent

Occupation

Workforce Development Manager, Amcor

Community service

Co-Founder, Feed Evansville
Immigrant Welcome & Resource Center
Zion Missionary Baptist Church
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity

Elected offices held

Evansville City Council (2020-2024)

Campaign finance filings Facebook Instagram TikTok

2026 salary: Approximately $31,000

What is this office?

The House is the larger chamber of the Indiana General Assembly, with 100 members representing districts of roughly equal population across the state.

Why this office matters

Representatives vote on laws governing education, public safety, health care, taxes, transportation, elections, environmental policy, and many other issues.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express your opinion on proposed Indiana legislation.
You have concerns about state laws or regulations.
You need help working with a state agency.
You have questions about state funding for local programs.
You want to request changes to Indiana law.
You need assistance navigating state government services.

Primary responsibilities

Draft, sponsor, and vote on state legislation.
Vote on Indiana’s two-year state budget.
Serve on legislative committees that review and amend bills.
Conduct oversight of state agencies and programs.
Represent the interests of constituents within their legislative district.
Confirm certain gubernatorial appointments when required by law through the legislative process.
Work with state agencies, local governments, businesses, and community organizations on issues affecting their district.

Qualifications

To serve in the Indiana House of Representatives, a candidate must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have lived in Indiana for at least two years before the election.
Have lived in the legislative district they seek to represent for at least one year before the election.

Geographic area represented

Several Indiana House districts include portions of Vanderburgh County. Each voter is represented by one Indiana House member based on where they live.

Term: 2 years, no term limits Area represented: Legislative District 77

Indiana House — District 78 D·R

Sally Busby Democrat

Occupation

Assistant Professor, University of Evansville School of Education

Community service

Member, Rotary Club
Member, Bridge
Member, NAACP
Member, League of Women Voters

Elected offices held

None

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook Instagram TikTok

Tim O'Brien Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $31,000

What is this office?

The House is the larger chamber of the Indiana General Assembly, with 100 members representing districts of roughly equal population across the state.

Why this office matters

Representatives vote on laws governing education, public safety, health care, taxes, transportation, elections, environmental policy, and many other issues.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express your opinion on proposed Indiana legislation.
You have concerns about state laws or regulations.
You need help working with a state agency.
You have questions about state funding for local programs.
You want to request changes to Indiana law.
You need assistance navigating state government services.

Primary responsibilities

Draft, sponsor, and vote on state legislation.
Vote on Indiana’s two-year state budget.
Serve on legislative committees that review and amend bills.
Conduct oversight of state agencies and programs.
Represent the interests of constituents within their legislative district.
Confirm certain gubernatorial appointments when required by law through the legislative process.
Work with state agencies, local governments, businesses, and community organizations on issues affecting their district.

Qualifications

To serve in the Indiana House of Representatives, a candidate must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Be at least 21 years old.
Have lived in Indiana for at least two years before the election.
Have lived in the legislative district they seek to represent for at least one year before the election.

Geographic area represented

Several Indiana House districts include portions of Vanderburgh County. Each voter is represented by one Indiana House member based on where they live.

Term: 2 years, no term limits Area represented: Legislative District 78

County

10 races

Vanderburgh County Assessor R

Bill Fluty Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $88,495

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Assessor is responsible for determining the assessed value of all taxable property in the county. Those assessments serve as the basis for calculating property taxes, although the Assessor does not set tax rates or collect property taxes.

The office oversees the assessment process to ensure that properties are valued fairly and consistently under Indiana law. This includes residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties.

Why this office matters

Property taxes fund many local government services, including schools, public safety, libraries, parks, and local government operations. Because assessed values determine how the property tax burden is distributed among taxpayers, the Assessor plays a key role in ensuring that taxation is fair and equitable.

An inaccurate assessment can result in a property owner paying either more or less than their share of local property taxes.

You’ll contact this office if

You have questions about your property’s assessed value.
You believe your property has been assessed incorrectly.
You have made improvements to your property and want to understand how they affect its assessment.
You need information about property assessment records.
You want to learn how Indiana’s property assessment system works.
You need to verify ownership, property characteristics, or assessment information.

Primary responsibilities

Determine the assessed value of all taxable real property in Vanderburgh County.
Maintain accurate property records, including ownership, building characteristics, and land information.
Conduct cyclical reassessments and annual adjustments required by Indiana law.
Review new construction, demolitions, and property improvements that affect assessed value.
Administer various property tax deductions and exemptions, such as the Homestead Deduction.
Work with township assessors (where applicable), the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF), and the County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals (PTABOA).
Defend assessments during appeals and ensure compliance with state assessment standards.

Qualifications

To serve as Vanderburgh County Assessor, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Reside in Vanderburgh County.
Meet the qualifications required under Indiana law for county elected officials.
Obtain and maintain the assessor-appraiser certifications required by the State of Indiana after taking office if not already certified.

Geographic area represented

The Vanderburgh County Assessor serves the entire county. Every parcel of taxable real property located within Vanderburgh County falls under the office’s jurisdiction, and all registered voters in the county vote for the office in countywide elections.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Vanderburgh County (countywide)

Vanderburgh County Auditor R

Theresa Bassemier Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $92,882

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Auditor serves as the county’s chief financial officer and is responsible for maintaining many of the county’s financial records. They track county revenues and expenditures, prepare payroll for county employees, maintain property tax records, and provide financial support to the County Council and County Commissioners.

The Auditor also serves as secretary to the County Commissioners and the County Council, keeping official records of many county financial actions and public meetings.

Why this office matters

The County Auditor helps ensure that taxpayer dollars are properly accounted for, and that county government operates with accurate financial information. The office plays a central role in budgeting, payroll, property taxation, and financial transparency.

Because the County Council serves as the county’s fiscal body, the Auditor generally does not decide how money is spent. However, the Auditor is responsible for accurately recording, tracking, and reporting those financial transactions.

You’ll contact this office if

You have questions about your property tax bill or tax deductions.
You need information about county payroll or government expenditures.
You want to review county financial records or budgets.
You need information about local taxing districts.
You have questions about tax rates or assessed value certifications.
You are seeking official financial records maintained by the county.

Primary responsibilities

Maintain the county’s financial records and accounting system.
Process payroll for county employees and elected officials.
Prepare and publish the county’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and other required financial reports.
Track county revenues and expenditures.
Administer many aspects of the county property tax system, including tax billing and settlement with local governments.
Certify tax rates and maintain tax duplicate records.
Serve as secretary to the County Council and County Commissioners.
Maintain official records of many county financial actions.
Assist in preparing the county’s annual budget.
Distribute property tax revenues to schools, cities, towns, libraries, and other local government units.

Qualifications

To serve as Vanderburgh County Auditor, a candidate must be a registered voter and a resident of Vanderburgh County, and meet all qualifications required under Indiana law for county elected officials. No specific educational background or professional accounting certification is required by state law.

Geographic area represented

The Vanderburgh County Auditor serves all residents of Vanderburgh County. Every registered voter in the county votes for this office.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Vanderburgh County (countywide)

Vanderburgh County Commissioner — District 2 R

Justin Elpers Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Fuel & Lubricant Sales, Heritage Petroleum LLC

Community service

None listed

Elected offices held

Vanderburgh County Commissioner, District 2; Evansville City Council, Ward 5 (2016–2022)

Facebook Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $45,131

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners serves as the executive branch of county government. The three commissioners are responsible for carrying out county policies, overseeing county departments, managing county property and infrastructure, and administering many of the day-to-day operations of county government.

Although commissioners are elected from individual geographic districts, they serve the entire county once in office, and all voters in the county cast ballots for every seat on the Board of Commissioners. However, all commissioners vote on issues affecting all county residents.

Why this office matters

County Commissioners make many of the decisions that affect residents’ daily lives. They oversee county roads and bridges outside city jurisdiction, county-owned buildings, emergency management, public health partnerships, and numerous contracts and public works projects. They also help shape county budgets and long-term planning alongside the County Council.

Many county services that residents rely on, from maintaining county infrastructure to administering elections and supporting the judicial system, depend on decisions made by the commissioners.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about county roads or bridges outside city jurisdiction.
You have questions about county-owned property or facilities.
You want to comment on county development projects.
You have concerns about county government services or departments overseen by the commissioners.
You want to express your opinion about county policies or spending priorities.

Primary responsibilities

Serve as the executive branch of Vanderburgh County government.
Oversee county departments under the Commissioners’ authority.
Manage county-owned buildings, land, and other public property.
Maintain county roads, bridges, and related infrastructure outside incorporated municipalities.
Award contracts for public works and county services.
Adopt and enforce county ordinances where authorized by state law.
Prepare and administer county budgets in cooperation with the County Council.
Appoint members to various county boards and commissions.
Respond to emergencies and coordinate county disaster preparedness through county agencies.

Qualifications

To serve as a Vanderburgh County Commissioner, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Be at least 18 years old.
Have resided in the commissioner district for at least one year before the election.
Continue residing in the district while serving in office.

Geographic area represented

District boundaries are established under Indiana law and may be adjusted following the decennial census to maintain equal population among districts.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (staggered seats; District 2 up in 2026) Area represented: Commissioner District 2 (portions of central and eastern Vanderburgh County)

Vanderburgh County Council — District 1 R

James Raben Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $26,656

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Council serves as the county’s fiscal body. While the County Commissioners oversee the day-to-day administration of county government, the County Council is responsible for approving the county’s budget, setting salaries for many county employees and officials, and making major financial decisions.

The Council consists of seven members: four elected from individual Council Districts and three elected countywide (at-large). In 2026, the four District seats are up for election.

Each District Council member represents residents within their specific geographic district, while making financial decisions that affect the entire county.

Why this office matters

The County Council determines how local tax dollars are spent and whether county government has the funding needed to provide services.

Council members decide funding for departments such as law enforcement, the courts, elections, the prosecutor’s office, the county jail, and other county agencies. They also approve major capital projects, consider requests for additional spending throughout the year, and help determine the county’s overall financial priorities.

Because nearly every county service depends on funding approved by the Council, its decisions affect residents throughout Vanderburgh County.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about county government spending or taxes.
You want to comment on the county budget during public meetings.
You have questions about funding for a county department or program.
You want to advocate for or against a county capital project.
You have concerns about county fiscal priorities or long-term financial planning.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the county’s annual budget.
Approve appropriations and additional spending requests.
Set salaries for many elected officials and county employees, as permitted by state law.
Establish county tax rates and levies within state guidelines.
Authorize certain county borrowing and bond issues.
Approve funding for county departments and agencies.
Review the county’s financial condition and long-term fiscal planning.
Consider requests for transfers of funds between budget accounts.

Qualifications

To serve on the Vanderburgh County Council, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Reside in the district they seek to represent (for district seats).
Meet the qualifications required under Indiana law for county office.

Geographic area represented

Each district council member represents one geographic district within Vanderburgh County.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (staggered; District seats up in 2026) Area represented: Council District 1

Vanderburgh County Council — District 2 R

Tom Shetler, Jr. Republican Incumbent

Occupation

President, Shetler Moving & Stg.

Community service

Boys & Girls Club
Youth Sports Coach

Elected offices held

Evansville City Council (1976–1979); Vanderburgh County Commissioner (2005–2006); Vanderburgh County Council (2006–present)

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $26,656

What is this office?

The Council consists of seven members: four elected from individual Council Districts and three elected countywide (at-large). In 2026, the four District seats are up for election.

Each District Council member represents residents within their specific geographic district, while making financial decisions that affect the entire county.

Why this office matters

The County Council determines how local tax dollars are spent and whether county government has the funding needed to provide services.

Because nearly every county service depends on funding approved by the Council, its decisions affect residents throughout Vanderburgh County.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about county government spending or taxes.
You want to comment on the county budget during public meetings.
You have questions about funding for a county department or program.
You want to advocate for or against a county capital project.
You have concerns about county fiscal priorities or long-term financial planning.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the county’s annual budget.
Approve appropriations and additional spending requests.
Set salaries for many elected officials and county employees, as permitted by state law.
Establish county tax rates and levies within state guidelines.
Authorize certain county borrowing and bond issues.
Approve funding for county departments and agencies.
Review the county’s financial condition and long-term fiscal planning.
Consider requests for transfers of funds between budget accounts.

Qualifications

To serve on the Vanderburgh County Council, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Reside in the district they seek to represent (for district seats).
Meet the qualifications required under Indiana law for county office.

Geographic area represented

Each district council member represents one geographic district within Vanderburgh County.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (staggered; District seats up in 2026) Area represented: Council District 2

Vanderburgh County Council — District 3 D

Nick Iaccarino Democrat Incumbent

Occupation

CEO, Keep Evansville Beautiful

Community service

Founding Member, Bee City Evansville
Partner, Evansville Forest Alliance
Public Defenders Commission
Vanderburgh County Democratic Party Political Director and former Vice Chair
Has raised thousands in funds for local nonprofits, including Aurora, the American Cancer Society, and others

Elected offices held

None (appointed to fill Vanderburgh County Council, District 3 seat vacated by Mayor Stephanie Terry)

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $26,656

What is this office?

The Council consists of seven members: four elected from individual Council Districts and three elected countywide (at-large). In 2026, the four District seats are up for election.

Each District Council member represents residents within their specific geographic district, while making financial decisions that affect the entire county.

Why this office matters

The County Council determines how local tax dollars are spent and whether county government has the funding needed to provide services.

Because nearly every county service depends on funding approved by the Council, its decisions affect residents throughout Vanderburgh County.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about county government spending or taxes.
You want to comment on the county budget during public meetings.
You have questions about funding for a county department or program.
You want to advocate for or against a county capital project.
You have concerns about county fiscal priorities or long-term financial planning.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the county’s annual budget.
Approve appropriations and additional spending requests.
Set salaries for many elected officials and county employees, as permitted by state law.
Establish county tax rates and levies within state guidelines.
Authorize certain county borrowing and bond issues.
Approve funding for county departments and agencies.
Review the county’s financial condition and long-term fiscal planning.
Consider requests for transfers of funds between budget accounts.

Qualifications

To serve on the Vanderburgh County Council, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Reside in the district they seek to represent (for district seats).
Meet the qualifications required under Indiana law for county office.

Geographic area represented

Each district council member represents one geographic district within Vanderburgh County.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (staggered; District seats up in 2026) Area represented: Council District 3

Vanderburgh County Council — District 4 D·R

Jason Jett Democrat

Occupation

Financial Advisor

Community service

Music Director at Creekside Baptist Church
Coach for Upward Basketball at Oak Hill Baptist Church
Community One Love Your Neighbor Day
4-H Camp Chaperone
Evansville Philharmonic Chorus
Donor to several area charities

Elected offices held

None

Facebook Campaign finance filings

John Montrastelle Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Government Sales Manager, Anchor, Inc.

Community service

Current: Evansville Solid Waste Board; Evansville Central Dispatch Board; Willard Library Board of Directors; Evansville Economic Development Commission
Past: President, Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau (3 years); Area Plan Commission; Big Brother, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Indiana

Elected offices held

Vanderburgh County Council (12 years; President for 5 years)

Campaign finance filings Facebook

2026 salary: $26,656

What is this office?

The Council consists of seven members: four elected from individual Council Districts and three elected countywide (at-large). In 2026, the four District seats are up for election.

Each District Council member represents residents within their specific geographic district, while making financial decisions that affect the entire county.

Why this office matters

The County Council determines how local tax dollars are spent and whether county government has the funding needed to provide services.

Because nearly every county service depends on funding approved by the Council, its decisions affect residents throughout Vanderburgh County.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about county government spending or taxes.
You want to comment on the county budget during public meetings.
You have questions about funding for a county department or program.
You want to advocate for or against a county capital project.
You have concerns about county fiscal priorities or long-term financial planning.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the county’s annual budget.
Approve appropriations and additional spending requests.
Set salaries for many elected officials and county employees, as permitted by state law.
Establish county tax rates and levies within state guidelines.
Authorize certain county borrowing and bond issues.
Approve funding for county departments and agencies.
Review the county’s financial condition and long-term fiscal planning.
Consider requests for transfers of funds between budget accounts.

Qualifications

To serve on the Vanderburgh County Council, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Reside in the district they seek to represent (for district seats).
Meet the qualifications required under Indiana law for county office.

Geographic area represented

Each district council member represents one geographic district within Vanderburgh County.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (staggered; District seats up in 2026) Area represented: Council District 4

Vanderburgh County Prosecutor R

Diana Moers Republican Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: $98,015

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor is the county’s chief law enforcement attorney. The prosecutor represents the State of Indiana in criminal cases that occur within Vanderburgh County, deciding whether criminal charges should be filed and prosecuting those cases in court.

The prosecutor also represents the public interest in certain juvenile, child support, and other legal proceedings authorized by Indiana law. Although the office works closely with local police agencies, the prosecutor is independent from law enforcement and makes charging decisions based on the evidence and applicable law.

Why this office matters

The prosecutor has significant influence over how the local criminal justice system operates. Decisions made by the office affect public safety, crime victims, defendants, and the efficient operation of the courts.

The prosecutor establishes policies for charging crimes, negotiating plea agreements, prioritizing resources, and determining how different types of offenses are handled. The office also works with victims and witnesses throughout the court process.

You’ll contact this office if

You are the victim of a crime and have questions about your case.
You have been subpoenaed as a witness in a criminal case.
You need information about the county’s child support enforcement program.
You want information about victim assistance services.
You have questions about criminal cases being prosecuted in Vanderburgh County.
You are seeking information about diversion or specialty court programs administered through the prosecutor’s office.

Primary responsibilities

Review police investigations and determine whether criminal charges should be filed.
Prosecute felony and misdemeanor criminal cases in Vanderburgh County courts.
Represent the State of Indiana in juvenile delinquency proceedings.
Operate child support enforcement services as required under Indiana law.
Advocate for crime victims and coordinate victim assistance services.
Negotiate plea agreements when appropriate.
Work with law enforcement agencies on criminal investigations and prosecutions.
Manage the Prosecutor’s Office, including deputy prosecutors and support staff.

Qualifications

To serve as Vanderburgh County Prosecutor, a candidate must generally be a licensed attorney admitted to practice law in Indiana, be eligible to hold public office under Indiana law, and meet residency requirements established by Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor serves all residents of Vanderburgh County. Unlike some county offices that are elected by district, the prosecutor is elected by voters countywide and has jurisdiction over criminal offenses occurring anywhere within Vanderburgh County.

The County Prosecutor does not

Represent individuals in private legal disputes.
Serve as the attorney for county government (that is the County Attorney or outside counsel).
Determine guilt or innocence, which is done by judges or juries.
Investigate crimes independently; investigations are primarily conducted by law enforcement agencies.

Term: 4 years, no term limits (elected in presidential election years) Area represented: Vanderburgh County (countywide)

Vanderburgh County Sheriff D

Noah Robinson Democrat Incumbent

Occupation

Vanderburgh County Sheriff

Elected offices held

Vanderburgh County Sheriff

Campaign website Campaign finance filings Facebook

2026 salary: $165,162

What is this office?

The Vanderburgh County Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for Vanderburgh County.

The Sheriff is responsible for operating the county jail, providing law enforcement services in unincorporated areas of the county (meaning areas outside of any city or town limits), serving court documents, providing courtroom security, transporting inmates, and enforcing state and local laws.

The Sheriff’s Office also works closely with municipal police departments, state police, prosecutors, courts, and other public safety agencies throughout the county.

Why this office matters

The Sheriff oversees one of the county’s largest public safety operations. Decisions made by the Sheriff affect public safety, jail operations, inmate programs, emergency response, court security, and the use of taxpayer resources.

The Sheriff also establishes many of the department’s operational priorities, including community policing efforts, jail management practices, training standards, and the deployment of deputies.

You’ll contact this office if

You need to report a crime or request law enforcement assistance in an unincorporated area of Vanderburgh County.
You need information about an inmate housed in the Vanderburgh County Jail.
You need to obtain or verify a handgun license application process (where applicable under state law).
You have questions about civil process, including serving legal papers or conducting sheriff’s sales.
You need assistance from the courthouse security division.
You wish to participate in community safety or crime prevention programs offered by the Sheriff’s Office.

Primary responsibilities

Provide law enforcement services in unincorporated areas of Vanderburgh County.
Operate and manage the Vanderburgh County Jail.
Transport inmates to and from court proceedings and other correctional facilities.
Serve warrants, subpoenas, protective orders, and other court-issued documents.
Provide security for the Vanderburgh County courts.
Investigate crimes within the Sheriff’s jurisdiction.
Execute court orders and sheriff’s sales.
Coordinate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies during investigations and emergencies.
Prepare and manage the Sheriff’s Office budget and personnel.
Oversee emergency planning and public safety initiatives within the department.

Qualifications

To serve as Vanderburgh County Sheriff, a candidate must generally be a registered voter, meet Indiana residency requirements, meet the qualifications established under Indiana law for holding the office of sheriff (including applicable law enforcement certification and training requirements), and not be prohibited from holding public office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

The Sheriff serves all of Vanderburgh County. While the Evansville Police Department provides primary law enforcement services within the City of Evansville, the Sheriff’s Office serves the county’s unincorporated areas and performs countywide responsibilities such as operating the jail, serving court process, courthouse security, inmate transportation, and supporting other law enforcement agencies throughout Vanderburgh County.

Term: 4 years (max 2 consecutive terms) Area represented: Vanderburgh County (countywide)

Vanderburgh County Superior Court 1 Judge NP

Leslie C. Shively Non-Partisan Incumbent

Occupation

Judge, Vanderburgh County Superior Court 1

Community service

Board of Directors of the Judicial Conference of Indiana — 2017–present
Indiana University Board of Trustees — 1976–1977 (First Student Trustee)
Ivy Tech Community College Board of Trustees (State Trustee) — 2009–2013
Indiana State Student Assistance Commission — 1986–1989
Indiana State Board of Law Examiners — 2001–2011; President 2009–2010
Vanderburgh County Election Board — 1991–1994
Indiana State Bar Association, Chair, Land Use Section — 2000–2004
Indiana State Bar Association, Board of Governors — 2014–2016
Indiana Judges' Association, Board of Managers — 2014–present
Evansville Bar Association, Secretary — 1982–1983
Evansville Bar Association, Board of Directors — 1982–1983, 1986, 2013–2016, 2017–2020
Evansville Bar Association Foundation, Board of Directors — 2013–2019

Elected offices held

Judge, Vanderburgh County Superior Court 1

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $216,834

What is this office?

A Vanderburgh County Superior Court judge presides over cases in one of the county’s primary trial courts.

Vanderburgh Superior Court is a court of general jurisdiction with seven elected judges and five magistrates. The court handles a broad range of cases, including criminal cases, civil lawsuits, family-law matters, juvenile and probate cases, misdemeanor and traffic cases, and small claims.

Although candidates run for a specific numbered seat, such as Superior Court Judge No. 1, judges can rotate among different assignments within the Superior Court. The court’s local rules divide its work among several divisions and provide for the assignment and rotation of judges.

Why this office matters

Superior Court judges make decisions that can have significant consequences for individuals and families.

Depending on their assignment, judges may determine whether someone accused of a crime is guilty, impose criminal sentences, resolve disputes between individuals or businesses, make decisions involving divorce and child custody, oversee juvenile or probate matters, and issue orders affecting property, finances and personal liberty.

Judges also manage courtroom proceedings, rule on what evidence may be considered, interpret and apply state law, and ensure that cases are handled according to constitutional and procedural requirements.

You’ll contact this office if

You are involved in a criminal case assigned to Vanderburgh Superior Court.
You are involved in a civil lawsuit heard by the court.
You have a divorce, child custody, child support or other family-law case.
You are involved in a juvenile or probate proceeding.
You have a misdemeanor or traffic case assigned to Superior Court.
You have a small-claims case.
You have been summoned for jury service in a case before the court.

Primary responsibilities

Preside over trials, hearings and other court proceedings.
Interpret and apply Indiana law.
Rule on motions and determine what evidence may be admitted in court.
Conduct jury trials and provide jurors with instructions on the law.
Decide cases that are tried without a jury.
Determine sentences following criminal convictions.
Issue court orders and judgments.
Protect the constitutional and legal rights of people appearing before the court.
Manage assigned cases and court proceedings to ensure cases move through the judicial system fairly and efficiently.
Share and rotate among Superior Court assignments as provided by the court’s local rules.

Qualifications

To serve as a Vanderburgh County Superior Court judge, a candidate must be a resident of Vanderburgh County, be admitted to practice law in Indiana, and meet Indiana’s general eligibility requirements for candidates for public office.

Geographic area represented

The Vanderburgh County Superior Court serves Vanderburgh County. Unlike a legislative office, however, a judge does not represent constituents or a geographic district in a policymaking capacity. The judge presides over cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the court and is responsible for applying the law impartially to the cases before them.

Term: 6 years Area represented: Vanderburgh County (countywide, nonpartisan)

Township

16 races

Armstrong Township Trustee R

Nicholas Wildeman Republican

Elected offices held

Armstrong Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Township Trustees often serve as the local government’s safety net of last resort. Their offices may help residents who are unable to meet basic living expenses after exhausting other available resources.

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Armstrong Township

Armstrong Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) R·R·R

Angela Kent Republican

Leslie Lawrence Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Owner, Award World Trophies & Gifts

Community service

Committee Member, Granted
2026 GOP Indiana Delegate

Elected offices held

Armstrong Township Advisory Board

Dennis Morgan Republican

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Board member represents all residents of their township, not individual districts within the township. Vanderburgh County contains eight townships: Armstrong, Center, German, Knight, Perry, Pigeon, Scott, and Union. Only voters who live within a particular township vote for that township’s board members.

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Armstrong Township

Center Township Trustee R

Gary Burdsall Republican Incumbent

Elected offices held

Center Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Center Township

Center Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) R·D·R·D·R·D

Thomas Gant Republican Incumbent

Brittany Russell Democrat

Thomas J. Shetler III Republican Incumbent

Tom Shoulders Democrat

J. Ervin Stafford Stucki Republican

Jennifer Zoph Democrat

Occupation

Laboratory Supervisor for Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital (Deaconess)

Community service

United Way of Southwestern Indiana
ARC of Evansville
Scouts BSA
Girl Scouts
Evansville Christian Life Center
Deaconess Pride ERG
Greater Evansville Youth
League of Women Voters
Indivisible
Evansville Forestry Alliance
Habitat for Humanity
Granted

Elected offices held

None

Facebook Instagram

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Center Township

German Township Trustee D·R

Wendy G. Turner Democrat

Campaign finance filings

Beverly White-Rowley Republican Incumbent

Elected offices held

German Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: German Township

German Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) D·R·D·R·D·R

Joseph J. Allen Democrat

Occupation

Science and History Teacher, North Posey Junior High School

Community service

None listed

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

Cathy Buxton Republican Incumbent

Dona M. Hall Democrat

Occupation

Retired from American General Finance

Community service

CASA volunteer
Volunteer for Democrat candidates
Assisted with Evansville cleanup projects

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

Curtis Miles Republican

Valencia Redding Democrat

Occupation

Retired Attendant for the City of Evansville

Community service

None listed

Elected offices held

None

Facebook Instagram

Jim Werner Republican Incumbent

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: German Township

Knight Township Trustee D

Kathryn M. Martin Democrat Incumbent

Elected offices held

Knight Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Knight Township

Knight Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) D·D·R·D·R

Chris Cooke Democrat Incumbent

Occupation

Municipal Government Administration

Community service

Indiana Cemetery Association (2013–present; President, 2018)
Indiana State Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services (2014–present; Chairman, 2018; 2026–present)
Board Member, Vanderburgh County Historical Society
Board Member, Greater Evansville Sports Hall of Fame
Board Member, St. John the Baptist Cemetery and Mausoleum Ministry
Board Member, Vanderburgh County Emergency Management Advisory Board (Chairman 2011–2014)
Member, Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Committee
President, United Neighborhoods of Evansville (2010–2012, 2016)
President, Eastview Neighborhood Association (2001–2015)

Elected offices held

Knight Township Board Member (Current Chairman)

Facebook

Thomas Goodman Democrat

Christopher Politano Republican

Chris S. Walsh Democrat

John Woodard, Jr. Republican

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Knight Township

Perry Township Trustee R·D

Charles B. Coughlin Republican

Occupation

Retired (President of Industrial Tool & Die Corp. for 36 years)

Community service

Volunteered, Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure

Elected offices held

None

Campaign finance filings

Rick Riney Democrat Incumbent

Occupation

Perry Township Trustee (16 years)

Elected offices held

Perry Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Perry Township

Perry Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) R·R·D·R·D·D

John Bassemier Republican Incumbent

Kyle P. Duggan Republican

James L. Eickhoff Democrat Incumbent

Matt Karges Republican

Occupation

Evansville Police Lieutenant

Community service

Current Member: Standing Rock Sioux Tribe; FOP Lodge 73; Evansville Parks Foundation; West Side Sportsman's Club
Helped build homes with Habitat for Humanity
Helped build Kids Kingdom
Volunteer Security, Source and Summit Youth Leadership Retreat
Volunteer Coach, numerous youth sports (baseball, softball, basketball)
Former Board Member: Mater Dei Men's Club; Keep Evansville Beautiful; German Township Booster Club

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

Keith Mosby, Jr. Democrat

Savannah Whicker Democrat

Occupation

CEO, ECHO Housing & Community Development

Community service

U.S. Army Combat Veteran (2003–2011)
Administrator, Evansville-Vanderburgh Commission on Homelessness (2025–present)
Co-Founder, E3 Initiative (2019–present)
Vice President, Germania Maennerchor Foundation (2024–present)
Vice-President and Past President, Veterans Overwatch (2024–2026 President; 2026–present Vice-President)
Facilitator, River City Veteran Resource Group (2024–present)
Member, Southwest Indiana Community Organizations Active in Disaster (2025–present)
Advisory Board Member, Immigrant Welcome and Resource Center (2024–2025)
Member, Regional Crisis Intervention Team Steering Committee (2024–2025)
Former Board Member, Leadership Everyone (2023–2024)

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Perry Township

Pigeon Township Trustee D

Ruby McGlown Democrat Incumbent

Elected offices held

Pigeon Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Pigeon Township

Pigeon Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) D·D·D

Shirley Baker Democrat Incumbent

Garnetta Esters Democrat Incumbent

Constance "Connie" Robinson Democrat Incumbent

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Pigeon Township

Scott Township Trustee D·R

Janet Hollis Democrat

Occupation

Retired

Community service

Member, League of Women Voters
Member, Southwest Indiana CAJE
Member, NAACP
Volunteer at Hangers, EVSC, and Borrowed Hearts

Elected offices held

None

Campaign finance filings Facebook

Keith Kahre Republican Incumbent

Elected offices held

Scott Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Scott Township

Scott Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) D·R·R·D·R·D

Keith Gambill Democrat

Occupation

Retired Educator

Community service

President and Vice-President, Indiana State Teachers Association
President, Evansville Teachers Association
Member, Evansville Mayor's Education Roundtable
Member, Indiana Education Blue Ribbon Committee on Assessment
Service Project Participant, ISTA Aspiring Educators "Outreach to Teach"
Music & Performing Arts Volunteer, Evansville Area Marching Bands & Color Guards
Music Director, Evansville Civic Theatre

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

Harold Grossman Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Semi-Retired; Occupational Health & Safety Consultant

Community service

Vanderburgh Fire Territory Board (4 years; Current President)
Safety Consulting, Seaton Hall Fire Protection Project
Instructor, Combustible Dust Training (various fire departments)

Elected offices held

Scott Township Board Member

Steve O. Jackson Republican Incumbent

Cheryl Schultz Democrat

Occupation

Retired

Community service

President, Thompkins PTA (2 years)
President, Central High School Band Boosters (2 years)
Chair, Vanderburgh County Democratic Party (current)

Elected offices held

None

Facebook

Patrick Seib Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Vice President of a small, family-owned precision grinding and machine shop

Community service

Den Leader and Treasurer for Cub Scout Pack 350 (since 2023)

Elected offices held

Scott Township Advisory Board Member

Campaign website

Greg Unfried Democrat

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Scott Township

Union Township Trustee R

Joseph E. Steinkamp Republican Incumbent

Occupation

Union Township Trustee

Community service

Indiana Soybean Alliance Board of Directors (9 years; President in 2015)
Member, St. Boniface Catholic Church (Finance Committee; Men's Club Treasurer)
Member, Indiana Farm Bureau

Elected offices held

Union Township Trustee

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

Township Trustees are elected officials responsible for administering township government. In Indiana, they have two primary responsibilities:

Providing township assistance to eligible residents experiencing financial hardship.
Managing and maintaining township-owned cemeteries and, in some townships, providing or contracting for fire protection and emergency services.

Residents vote only for the trustee in the township where they live.

Why this office matters

Depending on the township, the trustee’s office may provide temporary assistance with:

Housing and rent
Utility bills
Food
Burial or funeral assistance
Emergency needs

Trustees also oversee township budgets, maintain township properties, and ensure that any services provided by the township operate effectively.

You’ll contact this office if

You need emergency financial assistance for basic necessities.
You need help paying rent or utilities after experiencing a financial hardship.
You have questions about township assistance eligibility.
You have concerns about a township-owned cemetery.
You have questions about township services available where you live.
You need information about township fire protection or emergency services.

Primary responsibilities

Administer Indiana Township Assistance programs for eligible residents.
Determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance under Indiana law.
Prepare and manage the township’s annual budget.
Maintain township-owned cemeteries.
Manage township-owned property and equipment.
Oversee township employees and day-to-day operations.
In townships where applicable, provide or contract for fire protection and emergency services.
Serve as the executive officer of township government.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Trustee, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet the legal qualifications required to hold local elected office under Indiana law.

Geographic area represented

Each Township Trustee represents one township, not the entire county. Residents vote only for the trustee representing the township in which they reside.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Union Township

Union Township Board Member | (3 TO BE ELECTED) R·R

Jeffery Jay Pipken Republican Incumbent

Chris Winiger Republican Incumbent

2026 salary: Varies based on township size

What is this office?

The Township Board is the legislative and fiscal oversight body for Indiana townships. Each township elects a three-member board that works alongside the elected Township Trustee.

The Township Board approves the township’s budget, sets salaries, authorizes major financial decisions, and oversees the Trustee’s management of township funds.

In Vanderburgh County, each township elects its own Township Board members.

Why this office matters

Township boards help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and that township government operates transparently and responsibly.

Their decisions affect:

Township budgets and tax rates.
Funding for township assistance programs.
Fire protection and emergency services in fire protection districts (where applicable).
Oversight of township finances and expenditures.
Accountability for the elected Township Trustee.

Township Board members are part-time employees who provide one of the primary checks on the Trustee’s authority.

You’ll contact this office if

You have concerns about how township tax dollars are being spent.
You want to attend or speak at a township board meeting.
You have questions about the township’s annual budget.
You believe township financial decisions should receive greater public oversight.
You want to advocate for changes to township services or spending priorities.

Most requests for township assistance, emergency aid, or cemetery services are handled by the Township Trustee rather than the Township Board.

Primary responsibilities

Adopt the township’s annual budget.
Set salaries for township employees, including the Township Trustee.
Review and approve certain expenditures and financial transfers.
Exercise fiscal oversight of the Township Trustee.
Conduct public meetings and approve township financial policies.
Review financial reports and township operations.
Approve borrowing or other significant financial actions when required by law.

Qualifications

To serve as a Township Board member, a candidate must:

Be a registered voter.
Live within the township they seek to represent.
Meet all other qualifications required under Indiana election law.

Geographic area represented

Term

Township Board members serve four-year terms, with no term limits. All three board seats within each township are elected at the same time during the general election.

Term: 4 years, no term limits Area represented: Union Township

School Board

3 races

EVSC School Board — At-Large R·NP·NP·NP·NP

Steven Ary Republican

Campaign finance filings

Alan Goad Non-Partisan

Occupation

Maintenance Tech, Riorrdan Properties

Community service

Member, Catalyst Church
Serves in Children's Ministry
Serves on Prayer Team, Catalyst Church Prayer Podcast

Elected offices held

Republican Party Precinct Committeeman; Republican Party State Convention Delegate

Andrew Guarino Non-Partisan

Occupation

Retired EVSC Administrator — School Principal (17 years); School Assistant Principal (10 years)

Elected offices held

EVSC School Board (9 years)

Campaign finance filings

Melissa Cheri Moore Non-Partisan Incumbent

Occupation

Executive Pastor and Life Coach

Community service

U.S. Navy Veteran — 9.5 years of honorable service
Past Board Member, Evansville Police Merit Commission
Past Board Member, The Potter's Wheel
Past Board Member, CAPE
Past Board Member, Carver Community Organization
Board Member, Leadership Everyone
Former Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteer
EVSC Foundation Member
Mentor with YWCA
Executive Pastor, Greater Hope Church
Co-Host, Community Chat, WEOA 98.5 FM
Leadership Evansville Alumna
University of Evansville Alumna
Community Speaker/Workshop Facilitator
Founder and CEO, Melissa Morehead, LLC
Founder of women's empowerment initiatives focused on helping women overcome fear, build confidence, and move forward with purpose.

Elected offices held

EVSC School Board At-Large Trustee

Campaign finance filings Facebook

Brian Murphy Non-Partisan

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $2,000, plus per diem

What is this office?

The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation Board of School Trustees is the governing body of EVSC, the public school corporation serving Evansville and Vanderburgh County. The Board consists of seven elected members who establish district policy and provide oversight of EVSC. The Board does not manage the school corporation’s daily operations; those responsibilities belong to the superintendent and district administration. Instead, the Board sets the district’s overall direction, approves its budget and policies, hires and evaluates the superintendent, and makes major decisions affecting EVSC schools.

Why this office matters

School Board decisions can directly affect students, families, teachers, other EVSC employees, and taxpayers throughout Vanderburgh County. The Board makes decisions involving the school corporation’s budget, academic programs, staffing, facilities, transportation, student policies, and other district operations. It also selects and oversees the superintendent, who is responsible for administering the school corporation. Because every EVSC policy must receive School Board approval, Board members have significant influence over how the district operates and the priorities it pursues.

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express an opinion about an issue or policy being considered by EVSC.
You have concerns about district-wide policies or operations.
You want to comment on EVSC’s budget, facilities, academic programs, or other major decisions.
You want to address the School Board at a public meeting.
You want to advocate for a change in district policy.

Issues involving an individual student, teacher, classroom, or school generally should first be addressed through the appropriate teacher, principal, or EVSC administrator rather than the School Board.

Primary responsibilities

Approve the school corporation’s annual budget and financial plans.
Approve major expenditures, contracts, and other financial decisions.
Make decisions involving school facilities and capital projects.
Approve personnel actions and employment matters that require Board action.
Establish policies affecting students, employees, and district operations.
Conduct public meetings and provide oversight of the school corporation.
Represent the public in setting the district’s long-term priorities and direction.

Qualifications

EVSC’s bylaws provide that School Board members must be qualified and elected under the school corporation’s reorganization plan. A person otherwise eligible to serve cannot be disqualified because of age if the person is at least 21 years old. An EVSC employee who is elected or appointed to the Board must resign from employment with the corporation.

Geographic area represented

The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation serves Evansville and Vanderburgh County. The seven-member School Board includes members elected from geographic districts as well as members elected at-large.

Term

EVSC School Board members serve four-year terms. Board seats are elected on a staggered schedule. Beginning in 2026, School Board candidates run with a political party affiliation. In 2026, voters will elect members for District 1, District 2, and one At-Large seat.

Term: 4 years (staggered seats) Area represented: District-wide (At-Large seat)

EVSC School Board — District 1 NP

Christopher A. Kiefer, M.S. Non-Partisan Incumbent

Occupation

Associate Professor and Academic Dean, Ivy Tech Community College

Community service

EVSC Foundation Board
Vanderburgh County Community Corrections Advisory Board
Active with a number of community, educational, and nonprofit organizations over the past 20+ years

Elected offices held

EVSC Board of School Trustees – 24 years

Campaign finance filings Facebook

2026 salary: Approximately $2,000, plus per diem

What is this office?

Why this office matters

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express an opinion about an issue or policy being considered by EVSC.
You have concerns about district-wide policies or operations.
You want to comment on EVSC’s budget, facilities, academic programs, or other major decisions.
You want to address the School Board at a public meeting.
You want to advocate for a change in district policy.

Primary responsibilities

Approve the school corporation’s annual budget and financial plans.
Approve major expenditures, contracts, and other financial decisions.
Make decisions involving school facilities and capital projects.
Approve personnel actions and employment matters that require Board action.
Establish policies affecting students, employees, and district operations.
Conduct public meetings and provide oversight of the school corporation.
Represent the public in setting the district’s long-term priorities and direction.

Qualifications

Geographic area represented

Term

Term: 4 years (staggered seats) Area represented: EVSC District 1

EVSC School Board — District 2 | (2 TO BE ELECTED) NP·NP·NP·NP

Ken Colbert Non-Partisan

Campaign finance filings

Mike Duckworth Non-Partisan Incumbent

Occupation

Senior Business Development Director, Advanced Network & Computer Services

Community service

Former Vanderburgh County Sheriff's Deputy
Former School Liaison Officer
1989 Indiana Sheriffs' Association County Police Officer of the Year
Sagamore of the Wabash Award recipient

Elected offices held

EVSC School Board of Trustees, District 2 – 26 years (Current President, 6th term)

Campaign finance filings

David Hollingsworth Non-Partisan Incumbent

Campaign finance filings

Lindsey Patterson Non-Partisan

Campaign finance filings

2026 salary: Approximately $2,000, plus per diem

What is this office?

Why this office matters

You’ll contact this office if

You want to express an opinion about an issue or policy being considered by EVSC.
You have concerns about district-wide policies or operations.
You want to comment on EVSC’s budget, facilities, academic programs, or other major decisions.
You want to address the School Board at a public meeting.
You want to advocate for a change in district policy.

Primary responsibilities

Approve the school corporation’s annual budget and financial plans.
Approve major expenditures, contracts, and other financial decisions.
Make decisions involving school facilities and capital projects.
Approve personnel actions and employment matters that require Board action.
Establish policies affecting students, employees, and district operations.
Conduct public meetings and provide oversight of the school corporation.
Represent the public in setting the district’s long-term priorities and direction.

Qualifications

Geographic area represented

Term

Term: 4 years (staggered seats) Area represented: EVSC District 2 - (2 TO BE ELECTED)