Candidate Ratings: 2008 General Elections

Watchdog Indiana Home Page Indiana General Assembly & Governor Ratings  

NOTE: Indiana General Assembly candidates in the November 4, 2008, general elections are listed below by District Number. You need your State Representative and State Senator District Numbers to identify your candidates. You can go to Who's Your Legislator? at http://www.in.gov/apps/sos/legislator/search/ to find your Indiana House and Indiana Senate District Numbers.

Information from the following Candidate Questionnaire, together with the Indiana General Assembly & Governor Ratings and other information sources (such as public comments during legislative sessions and campaign platform statements), have been used to rate each of the Governor and General Assembly candidates in the November 4, 2008, general elections as either Taxpayer Friendly, Uncertain, Taxpayer UNfriendly, or POLITICAL HOG.

Taxpayer Friendly candidates are results-oriented, compassionate, and fiscally conservative to the point where the state and local tax burden of Hoosier working families is not increased.

Some candidates have an Uncertain rating because of a limited or mixed public record.

Taxpayer UNfriendly candidates believe the greatest good is served when the fist of government is shoved ever deeper in the wallet of ordinary working families.

A POLITICAL HOG is a Taxpayer UNfriendly candidate who also voted himself or herself a perpetual pay increase that is 20% more than the typical Hoosier working family earns during an entire year. POLITICAL HOGS care more about feeding at the public trough than they do serving the needs of Hoosier working families.

Candidate Questionnaire for the November 4, 2008, General Election:

1. BACKGROUND: Senate Joint Resolution 1 passed the Indiana Senate 40-7 and the Indiana House 79-20 on March 14, 2008, and was signed by the Governor on March 19, 2008. SJR 1 amends the Indiana Constitution to cap homeowners' property tax bills at 1% of assessed value, rental and agricultural property at 2%, and business property at 3%. For property taxes first due and payable in 2012, 90 of Indiana's 92 counties must have a homeowner property tax cap that is 1% of the gross assessed value. Until 2020, existing debt service prior to July 1, 2008, is exempted from the 1% homeowner gross assessed value cap in Lake and St. Joseph counties ONLY. The result of these two existing debt service exemptions equates to a 1.88% homeowner cap in Lake County and a 1.52% homeowner cap in St. Joseph County. The homeowner caps for Lake and St. Joseph counties must become 1% in 2020. The exact same version of SJR 1 that passed in 2008 must again pass in the General Assembly in 2009 to put the 1% constitutional homeowner property tax cap amendment on the 2010 ballot. We the people can then vote to make the 1% homeowner property tax cap a permanent part of the Indiana Constitution. Never has it been so easy to separate those who are part of the property tax relief solution from those who are part of the property tax spending problem. A General Assembly candidate who pledges to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008 is part of the solution. A candidate who opposes the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008 is part of the problem. Candidate who refuse to publicly declare their position on Senate Joint Resolution 1 are DESPICABLE. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008?
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? 

Mitch Daniels (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)
47 S. Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone: (877) 648-2448
E-mail: carah@mymanmitch.com (Cara Hodges, Executive Campaign Director)
Website: http://www.mymanmitch.com/ 

Andy Horning (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
7851 Pleasant Hill Road
Freedom, IN 47431-7235
Phone: (812) 859-4416
E-mail: andrewhorning@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.horningforgovernor.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Your apparent advocacy for SJR 1 makes no sense for a taxpayer "watchdog." Have you read it? Do you have any idea what this really does to taxpayers by removing constitutional protections and opening up the limits on both spending and taxation? You can't possibly trust the politicians who've been continuously betraying us to amend the constitution that protects us from them! I know that it seemed like a very positive thing for our politicians to respond to my calls for tax reform. It probably even seems like a good idea to amend the constitution (that almost nobody has read, and no politician obeys) because we've been told all sorts of nonsense about it...and we tend to believe what we're told.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Now, you know that I started the tax protest movement here, right? I was the guy who held press conferences and forums on tax reform for years before I lead the protest on the Governor's Mansion lawn July 4, 2007. I advocated almost 100% personal property tax repeal in 1999 by doing the constitution (see my Platform on my current website). I still advocate a 100% constitution diet and exorcism plan to rid the state of unconstitutional spending, agencies, powers and taxation. I am the only candidate who'd cut spending and taxes. Period. That's unequivocal. I apologize for responding in what can only be seen as an insulting fashion. But please, please read the constitution. If you contact me, I'll send you a PDF copy of the Indiana Constitution that I have annotated with my observations and interpretations. It's a pretty short read. Also, please review the history of constitutional revisions. The reason we're in the mess we're in right now is because of the last two constitutional amendment processes! Don't let these guys amend what they will not obey. Make them obey what protects us from them!

Jill Long Thompson (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
P.O. Box 108
Argos, IN 46501
Phone: (574) 892-6433
E-mail: jrettof@hoosiersforjill.com
Website: www.hoosiersforjill.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to sign in 2009 the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND. 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to sign Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Currently the Constitution requires equal levels of property taxation, and I think sensible changes to our tax code should be done statutorily, not constitutionally. In Congress, I never voted for a tax increase or for a new tax, and I believe taxes in Indiana should be fair, equitable and transparent. As governor, instead of simply playing a shell game with our tax structure by shifting the burden of taxes from one revenue source to another, I’ll work to update our entire tax structure. We need to do a better job of helping our businesses and families compete in today’s global economy, and fixing our tax system is central to jump-starting Indiana’s struggling economy.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Linda C. Lawson (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

Fernando Urzua (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
323 Beverly Pl.
Munster, IN 46321
Phone: (219) 836-1533
E-mail: furzua@yahoo.com 
Website: http://www.fernandourzua.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

State Representative District 3:

State Representative District 4:

Larry Chubb (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
249 Olivia Court
Chesterton, IN 46304
Phone: (219) 405-2796
E-mail:
Website: http://electlarrychubb.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. This is not a real solution to the problem. Government spending is the true problem and must be reduced first. Amending the State Constitution in such an illusory way is not appropriate and undermines the integrity of our Constitution.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Ed Soliday (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution) 

State Representative District 5:

Craig R. Fry (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)

Dave Miller (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
2333 Southdale Dr.
Elkhart, IN 46517
Phone: (574) 536-4004
E-mail: MrDavidLMiller@comcast.net
Website: http://www.davemiller.us:80/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected, I do plan to support the constitutional property tax caps.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

State Representative District 6:

B. Patrick Bauer (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

Kevin L. Mitschelen (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
16061 Petro Dr.
Mishawaka, IN 46544
Phone: (574) 259-1113
E-mail: mitschelens-4@sbcglobal.net 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I have committed to the governor's tax plan if elected and will seek any tax reduction for Hoosiers ACROSS THE BOARD.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Government must work for the people instead of the people working for the government!
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Dan Herbster (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
60149 Main St
South Bend, IN 46614
Phone: (574) 339-2654
E-mail: danielherbster@yahoo.com 
Website: http://www.danherbster.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (07/08/08): I support property tax caps and I would even like to see property taxes eliminated. I was disappointed to see my home county (St. Joe) and Lake County exempted from the cap.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Dale R. Devon (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
52573 Hickory Road
Granger, IN 46530
Phone: (574) 536-8020
E-mail: dale@devoncustomhomes.com
Website: daledevon.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: As a local small home builder in my area I would like to see property taxes eliminated. The housing in St. Joseph county is in a rut and property tax relief is vital to our community. I would vote vote for the same version SJR 1, but I would also fight for more relief than is happing now. St. Joseph and Lake counties pay 1.2% not just 1%.  Hoping for a change!
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

K. P. Nfr (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE) 
8633 W 400 N
Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone: (219) 229-2027
E-mail: kp@kpnfr.com; kp4rep@ossie4.com  
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Kenneth M. Kaminski (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
2771 Hickory Street
Portage, IN 46368
Phone: (219) 628-5594
E-mail: kaminskiforstaterep@hotmail.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I believe SJR1 needs improvements and it should have exceptions in it for retired Hoosiers. There are several things I believe can improve SJR1, therefore, I am withholding my pledge. Let's make sure it is the absolute "best" it can be for all Hoosiers at "all" income levels!
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND. 

Charles "Chuck" Moseley (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
6448 Central Avenue
Portage, IN 46368
Phone: (219) 763-3756
E-mail:
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Cy Huerter (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
8740 Carolina Ave.
Highland, IN 46322
Phone: (219) 838-3165
E-mail: c-bhuerter@juno.com 
Website: www.Citizens4Cy.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes, I fully intend to vote in 09 for the same version of SJR 1, but, I believe that we have the opportunity to do even better. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I am looking for a way to eliminate property taxes for homesteads all together, or, if that fails, turn the property tax on homesteads into a combination of a sales and capital gains tax.  My sales/capital gains tax plan would be settled at the closing table when a homestead is bought/sold. The assessment for the buyer would be a percentage of the purchase price, the payment from the seller would be a percentage of the capital gain. Any capital loss would be credited to the basis (purchase price) of the seller's next homestead.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I support the goal of eliminating property taxes for homesteads (the homes we actually occupy), but, doing so could lead to increases in both income and sales taxes, which I want to reduce. Experience shows that taxes can be significantly reduced through the institution of more federal, state, county, township and local governmental efficiencies. Since the goal of eliminating property taxes for homesteads may not be practical, my proposal is to settle it to the penny at the closing table when a homestead is bought / sold. The buyer gets a firm assessment (percentage of the purchase price, in other words, a sales tax) which can be paid monthly through the escrow account. The seller pays a capital gains tax, (no gain, no tax), with any capital loss available to be used as a deduction for future tax liability. These taxes could be adjusted for inflation or deflation for future buyers and sellers. Since the average turnover for homes in Indiana is only around 5 years, this plan will reward long term home owners and encourage community stability.

Dan Stevenson (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

George T. Janiec (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1701 170th Pl.
Hammond, IN 46324
Phone: (219) 678-6761
E-mail: gjaniec@sbcglobal.net 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (08/07/08): I do strongly support the passage of SJR 1.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER (08/07/08): Not at this time.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: NO.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: NO.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: YES.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: NO.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: NO.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: YES.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: YES.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

State Representative District 13:

Chester F. Dobis (POLITICAL HOG - Part of the Problem)

Joseph M. Hero (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution) 
11723 South Oakridge Drive
St. John, IN 46373
Phone: (219) 365-8714
E-mail: nrck.nwpt@att.net
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap. I ran on that platform 4 years ago! Its amazing how that caught on!
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: My platform is based on no new taxes.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 2, 2004, Primary Election
1. Guiding Principles for 2005-07 Biennium Budget. Cut the cost of prescription medications. Cut the cost of a college education. Oppose any and all new taxes. Cut insurance costs for individuals and business. Promote economic development and new jobs. Support small business, manufacturing, and leading edge technology incubators. No "special deals" for "special interest people." Stop raiding teacher's pension funds and improve schools.
2. Opinions on Homeowner Property Taxes. I have an eleven point Tax Relief Legislation Plan to reduce property taxes and and stimulate economic development in Lake County. (1) Legislation to use all Lake County casino money ($82 million) to cut the county tax component of your tax bill by 30%. Cities and Towns presently without Casinos receive a pittance from Casino revenue ($4.5 million of the $82 million). (2) Legislation to have the State supply funding for the Lake County welfare property tax component which will further significantly reduce the County property tax component. Require the state cut spending to fund this tax relief. (3) Legislation to cap taxes, cap the tax levy, and cap government spending. Reduce local budgets and reduce the tax levy by local government entities by 7% per year to shrink government spending. (4) Limit and cap the tax increases on residential home owners in any one year. (5) Cap property taxes to a fixed percent (GOAL 1 TO 1.5%) of assessed valuation. (6) Legislation to allow filing retroactively for entitled exemptions and appeals. (7) Legislation to provide adequate tax relief for senior citizens on a fixed income. (8) Legislation to stop companies given tax breaks in HB 1858 from outsourcing jobs. (9) Legislation for the consolidation of government services and provide a fair minimum property tax and fair and equitable user and utility rates to cut taxes. (10) Legislation and a Constitutional amendment to give the State Attorney General jurisdiction to prosecute public corruption and vote fraud anywhere in the state. Current public corruption scandals in Lake County demonstrates the need for legislation to increase prosecution and increase criminal penalties. (11) Provide a payment plan for taxpayers who are unable to pay their tax bills on time. 
3. Position on Indianapolis to Evansville Interstate. I favor no tax increases. I favor a small amount of "seed" money to get the project going, but require tax cuts to make up the amount.
4. Additional Comments. I am troubled by the tax burden being placed on the working families of this district. The current legislators in Indianapolis knew we were going to be hit hard by the property tax reassessment and they did nothing about it. In fact, it wasn't until we, the concerned citizens of this community, started asking questions that the administration even began to act upon this important issue, all after the fact. This is why it is critical we elect competent leaders for the State Representative position. The time has come to put new leadership in charge at the State House. We need a Representative who will stand up for Hoosier families, not the special interest groups. I look forward to a spirited campaign and earning your vote!

State Representative District 14:

Catherine Campbell (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
578 Jefferson
Gary, IN 46402 
Phone: (219) 882-5112
E-mail: ccampbell14th@hotmail.com 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes I would vote to keep SJR 1 intact.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 2, 2004, General Election
1. Guiding Principles for 2005-07 Biennium Budget. DID NOT RESPOND.
2. Opinions on Homeowner Property Taxes. DID NOT RESPOND.
3. Position on Indianapolis to Evansville Interstate. DID NOT RESPOND.
4. Additional Comments. DID NOT RESPOND.

Vernon G. Smith (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

State Representative District 15:

Don Lehe (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Myron M. Sutton (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
103 West Goss Street
Kentland, IN 47951
Phone: (219) 474-3287
E-mail: kathierigby@hotmail.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - May 2, 2006, Primary Election
1. What will be your guiding principles for the 2007-2009 biennium budget? Specifically, what mix of spending cuts, tax increases, and/or reserve depletions will you support? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. What are your opinions regarding homeowner property taxes? Specifically, do favor freezing all property taxes and funding budget increases through both individual and business income tax increases? Or, do you favor a mixture of income tax, sales tax and meals tax increases to reduce property tax growth while providing additional revenue to local governments? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. Considering the "Major Moves" legislation passed by the General Assembly this year, do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. What is your position regarding the construction of an interstate from Indianapolis to Evansville? Specifically, should the $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund that is part of "Major Moves" be used exclusively for a new terrain I-69 extension so as to avoid state gas tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Douglas L. Gutwein (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
P.O. Box 341
Francesville, IN 47946
Phone: (765) 427-8579
E-mail:
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (10/14/08 Indiana Family Institute Voter Guide): Strongly favors passing the constitutional amendment on property tax reform again next year (must pass two sessions) so it can go on the November general election ballot for a vote.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Bill Reutebuch (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
5685 South Main
Winamac, IN 46996
Phone: (574) 595-0719
E-mail: riverside@pwrtc.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. We have no idea that 1, 2, 3, (proposal) is going to work. It needs some time.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Mark MacKillop (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
6035 South 250 West
North Judson, IN 46366
Phone: (574) 936-4434
E-mail: mark@markmackillop.com  
Website: http://www.markmackillop.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Bill Johnson (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
106 West Clark St.
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: (219) 488-7631
E-mail: Bill.Johnson@johnson19.com 
Website: www.johnson19.com 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: Yes, but I would like to point out this is only a token start. With this law, our fearless leaders have not put all of Indiana on a diet. Rather they have trimmed the tax everyone is looking at - property taxes. Like a magician, they will pull new tax burdens out of the hat. If government is not reduced, it will need the same portion of Purina Government Tax Chow it needed before the new property tax laws. Where will the Tax Chow come from? My question to those in office is, “Is Government smaller, more efficient and less expensive than when you went into office?"
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Tired of disorganized, burdensome and confusing taxation, I intend to protect the wallets of everyone in Indiana by doing the following: (1) vote NO, for any increase in our Indiana property, sales or income taxes; (2) promote fair and simple taxation for Indiana citizens and businesses; (3) prioritize spending for the care of our aging Hoosiers; (4) derail the South Shore expansion with its increased and on-going tax burden; (5) avoid all forms of debt – we must live within our means, and so should Indiana ; (6) work to end overlapping governmental bureaucracy, beginning with selectively eliminating township trustees in the urban setting. The Unhappy Taxpayers for Bill Johnson and I believe three things. The first is that tax dollars should not benefit one group of citizens or businesses over another; rather they should benefit everyone equally when properly spent. The second is that it’s time to put Indiana on a fiscal diet by freezing or reducing our tax burdens. It’s plain and simple – if Indianapolis feels they need to add a single dollar to the State budget, they should find a dollar of spending to cut. The third is that our elected officials are not doing the job we sent them to do, which is to give us smaller government and lower taxes.

Shelli VanDenburgh (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Jerry P. Cooley (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE) 
1777 W 1000 N
LaPorte, IN 46350
Phone: (219) 326-8075 
E-mail: jpcooleypc@aol.com; ddecker3@verizon.net   
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Clyde James (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)  
64299 St. Rd. 331
South Bend, IN 46614
Phone: (574) 633-4890
E-mail: tam.james@yahoo.com 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Larry E. Rensberger (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
10371 Long Meadow Lane
Granger, IN 46530
Phone: (574) 674-2723
E-mail: tbansba@aol.com; larryrensberger@yahoo.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. Daniels has been incorrect in almost everything he has done. We must not allow this to be put into the constitution as it is now written. Indiana must address Illegal Immigrants. Why do you not have a question about this? Why do you not have a place for our comments? Also, Daniels has been blaming local government for the high cost of Indiana taxes. The fact is that the local government, county and township, is not where the waste is. The HUGE waste is at the State level, and much of it comes under the heading of construction. Only a new group of Representatives and a new Governor can SAVE INDIANA.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: NO.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: YES.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: YES. Or more help would be OK.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: Mandatory is not a good idea. Optional is the only way for this to be done. Parents and teachers should have a choice here. Five-year-old children are not all at the same level and to make it mandatory shows the lack of ability politicians have in running our educational system.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: We do not know how this will turn. I'm against any additional taxes.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: This is a joke. The road will not be built for this amount. It will require much more. If possible this road should not be built, but improve US 41 connecting to I-70 or improve Ind 37 connecting to I-64.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: NO.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - May 2, 2006, Primary Election
1. What will be your guiding principles for the 2007-2009 biennium budget? Specifically, what mix of spending cuts, tax increases, and/or reserve depletions will you support? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. What are your opinions regarding homeowner property taxes? Specifically, do favor freezing all property taxes and funding budget increases through both individual and business income tax increases? Or, do you favor a mixture of income tax, sales tax and meals tax increases to reduce property tax growth while providing additional revenue to local governments? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. Considering the "Major Moves" legislation passed by the General Assembly this year, do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. What is your position regarding the construction of an interstate from Indianapolis to Evansville? Specifically, should the $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund that is part of "Major Moves" be used exclusively for a new terrain I-69 extension so as to avoid state gas tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

William J. (Bill) Ruppel (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Timothy J. Banter, Jr. (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)  
465 South Private Rd 1010 East
Peru, IN 46970
Phone: (765) 860-9474
E-mail: bantert@hotmail.com; banterforstaterep@yahoo.com 
Website: http://www.campaignwindow.com/banterforstaterep24/index.cfm 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I do not support amending the state constitution to cap homeowners' property tax bills at 1 percent of assessed valuation; rental and agricultural property at 2 percent; and business property at 3 percent. I think that it is foolish to rely so much on sales taxes to principally fund state services. With the economy being in bad shape, consumers will spend less. If people curtail their spending, this will mean that less tax revenues will be generated. This is just one of many reasons why I oppose the property tax caps. I believe there are other ways that the state can provide property tax relief and reform.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Richard W. McClain (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

John Polles (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1611 Sheridan Road
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: (765) 497-1282
E-mail: jspolles@comcast.net
Website: http://dlcc.wiredforchange.com/o/5913/p/10021/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Randy Truitt (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
615 Ridgewood Drive
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: (765) 463-1737
E-mail:  
Website: http://www.randytruitt.com/  
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: DID NOT RESPOND. POSITION ON PROPERTY TAX REFORM (http://www.randytruitt.com/where-i-stand): A significant first step to reduce property taxes was accomplished by the Indiana legislature with Governor Daniels' leadership during 2008. I will support the effort to enact the amendments to Indiana’s laws and Constitution necessary to achieve the fair, far-reaching and final changes desired by Indiana’s citizens.  
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Jason Ellis (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
86 Kensington Ct.
Pittsboro, IN 46167
Phone: (317) 289-3005
E-mail: jmellis4@tds.net 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I support the Constitutional amendment for the 1 per cent tax cap. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I look forward to serving my district. I pledge to be a voice of the wishes and concerns of the citizens of district 28.

Wade Mitchell (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)  
910 S. Lebanon St.
Lebanon, IN 46052
Phone: (317) 363-0850
E-mail: VoteWadeMitchell@gmail.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I do pledge to vote for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008. However, I pledge to vote for this legislation only as the best current alternative being offered. If elected I plan to work toward the elimination of taxes on primary residential property. I believe that while a 1% cap is a good start the assessments still may fluctuate changing the actual dollar amount to be paid by Hoosiers. Simply changing the percentage does not protect Hoosiers from sudden rises in property taxes. Until we stop residential property taxes no Hoosier will ever own their property. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): This plan is a start but leaves the door open for the recent issues to happen again. The problem recently was not the percentage of the tax; it was the sudden jump in the value of the assessments. Lowering the percentage now does help, but if the assessments rise again, then the amount the taxpayer must pay will also rise. It would have been better to cap the value of the property than to adjust a percentage, but the only real solution for Indiana homeowners is to eliminate the residential property tax. A better compromise might be to limit assessments to the purchase or refinance price of the property. Assessments that are far beyond the price the property could be sold at are outrageous and must be examined closely.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: My candidacy is devoted to personal responsibility, fiscal responsibility, smaller government, and lower taxes. If elected I will work to eliminate unnecessary government, promote personal responsibility, reduce government sponsorship of programs of entitlement, eliminate the idea that the government should care for you from cradle to the grave, and ultimately reduce the tax burden on all Hoosiers. As a fiscal conservative, I hope that you would support my positions and campaign and I appreciate your interest in my candidacy. I am always happy to answer the questions of Hoosiers, especially those who take an active interest in Indiana politics. I look forward to working with Watchdog Indiana and any group who advocates lower taxes and citizen oversight of government taxation and spending. I applaud your efforts and hope you and organizations like yours hold all candidates and lawmakers to task. We are all in this together. I would be happy to answer any questions.

Jeffrey A. Thompson (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

State Representative District 29:

Joseph L. (Joe) Weingarten (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
14066 Deer Stone Lane
Fortville, IN 46040
Phone: (317) 598-1026
E-mail: mrmac@aol.com; indiana4joe@gmail.com  
Website: www.indianaforjoe.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: YES - I don't think they went far enough in the changes and to be very frank, I don't trust our current elected leaders. There is something very fishy about voting again and again. Too many chances to kill this off. Note- I would like to see this changed to when you buy your home, the price you pay becomes the appraised value and never changes until you sell. At the time of purchase you pay a 1% tax and then every year thereafter you pay a 1% tax. No changes ever, no increase. 1% forever every year. If a bank can make a loan for 30 years, the state should be able to live within the same budget. No more appeals, no more government employees working in this area, it's all gone, just 1%. No one claiming the market value of your house has jumped. No one being forced out of their homes because the market value went up and so did taxes. How simple can you get. Also they still have not done the hard part trim the government. It's time to work to finish what they started, I am just afraid they will start going backwards once the election is over. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): The idea of a constitutional amendment sounds good. It sounds like our state leaders will protect us now and forever, until the problem becomes a big issue in, say 10 years, and we’re back to trying to change the constitution once again. Moreover, who is going to protect us from escalating assessments? What is to prevent an assessor from deciding your home is suddenly worth a lot more and tax you accordingly? A lot of people in this state recently suffered from a significant increase in the assessed value of their home due to “trending,” resulting in higher property taxes, even though the bottom pretty well fell out of the housing market. Higher caps on rental property means, simply, renters will be paying higher rents to cover the increase. Higher caps on farmland means, simply, we all will pay more for agricultural products. Higher caps on businesses means, simply, we all will pay more for goods and services. These are hidden taxes we are all going to pay. The constitution should not be amended. This is simply a “feel-good” measure that will end up standing in the way of any future changes to Indiana’s tax system to make it much more reasonable and equitable. HEA 1001 is untested legislation. Many of the components sound good and hopefully will provide the intended results. But, as we all know, more often than not legislation has unintended consequences. Hardening the legislation with a constitutional amendment would only make it that much more difficult to fix, not to mention stand in the way of true tax reform.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I am running against Ms. Kathy Richardson who has held this office for 16 years and I believe has forgotten that she is the representative of the people and not the government. I know this year we are all saying it's time for a change, well in this case its long overdue. Please go to my website for positions on various topics.

State Representative District 30:

Ron Herrell (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE) 

Jason C. Miller (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution) 
1208 W. Taylor St., Unit B
Kokomo, IN 46901
Phone: (765) 236-0307
E-mail: millerfor30@yahoo.com     
Website: http://www.jasonmiller30.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I pledge to vote for the exact same version of SJR1 if elected. We must not let this historic and crucial opportunity slip by due to partisan politics. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes, if we can't eliminate property taxes all together.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

Joe Pearson (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
0180 W St Rd 18
Hartford City, IN 47378
Phone: (765) 748-6052
E-mail: joepearsonhd31@gmail.com  
Website: http://www.pearsonforindiana.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Andy Schemenaur (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
572 S. 600 E
Portland, IN 47371
Phone: (260) 726-6783
E-mail: schemenaur@jayco.net; wschemenaur@co.jay.in.us; schemenaur@bright.net   
Website: http://andyschemenaur.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.  

Theodore (Ted) Baker (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
4904 North Sollars Drive
Muncie, IN 47304
Phone: (765) 744-6956
E-mail: tbaker9037@aol.com
Website: www.electTedBaker.org
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected in the fall 2008 General Election, I pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version SJR 1 that passed in 2008. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): If elected, I would vote for the current bill so the issue can be given to Indiana voters. If made into law, individuals would see definite property tax relief. I am, however, concerned that if the 2 percent and 3 percent caps go into place for rental/agricultural property and business property, this could hurt renters, farmers, and small-business owners. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: If elected, I will work hard on behalf of the taxpayers of Indiana. 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: If elected to the Indiana House of Representatives this fall, I pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009. I am an advocate for continued property tax relief and will work hard to continue this cause. I believe this issue needs to be brought to a public vote for a permanent change to the Indiana Constitution.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I have been in private business for the past 28 years and have owned a manufacturing business for 11 years (sold this past November) and currently own two retail businesses.  My experiences in business and job creation have motivated me to try to make a difference in Indiana.  I am very optomistic concerning Indiana's future.  We have so many great resources and opportunities before us.

Dennis Tyler (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)

LeeAnn Mengelt (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
4900 N 925 W
Yorktown, IN 47396
Phone: (765) 759-9469
E-mail: mengeltfamily@sbcglobal.net
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Terri Jo Austin (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)  

Frank Burrows (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution) 
1630 VanBuskirk Road
Anderson, IN 46011
Phone: (765) 644-7619
E-mail: Voteburrows@gmail.com; chiefburrows@gmail.com      
Website: http://www.voteburrows.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected I pledge to vote for SJR 1 as passed in 2008.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

Greg Noland (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem) 
836 Charlene Lane
Anderson, IN 46011
Phone: (765) 644-0656
E-mail: noland3@mindspring.com 
Website: http://gregnoland.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I really prefer that property taxes be repealed in Indiana. However, we have a long way to go to get there. The problem I have with this bill is the percentage should be the same for all types of property. The other political parties use business taxes to hide the real tax burden you and I pay. There is one party especially that seems to think we should heavily tax our evil businesses (the ones that create the jobs for us). Let us think about this. A business is there to make a profit, not to create jobs for us. Most businesses even want to see a certain return on their investment, otherwise they would just leave the money in the bank and draw interest. When a business, say a bakery, has an increase in the cost of flour, then bakers raise their prices to you and I to cover the increased price of flour, so they can continue to make a profit. What do you think the business will have to do when we raise taxes to them? The same thing! They have to raise their price to us so they can continue to make a profit. So who really is paying the 3 percent taxes we charge businesses? We are, but we cannot see it because it is hidden in the cost of the things we buy. We live in a global economy. Our Indiana businesses are competing against companies all over the world. A company in another country that has a small amount of taxes to pay has a competitive advantage. Sometimes on high-volume parts only a few pennies can make the difference between getting the order (and the jobs) or not. This country taxes its businesses at a higher rate than most all of the countries in the world. This translates into lost orders for the businesses and lost jobs for us.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Kelly S. Gaskill (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
16 E. 29^th Street
Anderson, IN 46016
Phone: (765) 374-3945
E-mail: local663kelly@yahoo.com 
Website: http://www.kellygaskill.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I plan to support constitutional caps on property tax as passed by the current legislature. I don't think that the work stops there. We have to chip away at the property tax at every opportunity until it is gone. I want the voters to have an opportunity some day to amend our state constitution to abolish property taxes altogether.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

(Roofer) Robert Jozwiak (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem) 
P.O. Box 2111
Anderson, IN 46011
Phone: (765) 642-2651
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): The constitution should be amended to eliminate all property tax. I prefer a consumption tax combined with a flat income tax. The first $50,000. in individual earnings should be exempt. Taxing agricultural land at 2% is a hidden tax, because it will only be passed on to the consumer in the form of higher food prices. A 3% tax on business property is foolish. Businesses will decide to set up operations in other states where the property tax is less. Businesses operating in other states will not be hiring Indiana residents. Businesses that already have operations here will be less inclined to improve or expand their facilities.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Scott E. Reske (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

Jacqueline "Jacque" R. Clements (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
2000 Southridge Drive
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: (765) 654-5150
E-mail: jacque.clements@yahoo.com; mmitchell@clintonco.com; steve.frey@sbcglobal.net 
Website: http://jacqueclements.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I will support Senate Joint Resolution 1 to allow the question to become a referendum.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Bob Snow (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1586 Fox Fire Lane
Kokomo, IN 46902
Phone: (765) 455-1966
E-mail: matrobpaul@comcast.net
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Rusty Skoog (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
5764 Coopers Hawk Drive
Carmel, IN 46033
Phone: (317) 846-6325, (317) 710-1416
E-mail: skoogforrepresentative@hotmail.com
Website: http://rustyskoog.com/default.aspx 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): All this will do is tie the hands of the legislators, not allowing them to respond to the situations at hand.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - May 2, 2006, Primary Election
1. What will be your guiding principles for the 2007-2009 biennium budget? Specifically, what mix of spending cuts, tax increases, and/or reserve depletions will you support? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. What are your opinions regarding homeowner property taxes? Specifically, do favor freezing all property taxes and funding budget increases through both individual and business income tax increases? Or, do you favor a mixture of income tax, sales tax and meals tax increases to reduce property tax growth while providing additional revenue to local governments? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. Considering the "Major Moves" legislation passed by the General Assembly this year, do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. What is your position regarding the construction of an interstate from Indianapolis to Evansville? Specifically, should the $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund that is part of "Major Moves" be used exclusively for a new terrain I-69 extension so as to avoid state gas tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 2, 2004, General Election
1. Guiding Principles for 2005-07 Biennium Budget. DID NOT RESPOND.
2. Opinions on Homeowner Property Taxes. DID NOT RESPOND.
3. Position on Indianapolis to Evansville Interstate. DID NOT RESPOND.
4. Additional Comments. DID NOT RESPOND.

Jerry Torr (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Nicholas G. Schmutte (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1675 N CR 600 E
Avon, IN 46123
Phone: (317) 745-4076
E-mail: nschmutte@earthlink.net 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Without the constitutional provision, it is likely the cap will not be adhered to. Assessed valuation is still very subjective. The current spate of foreclosures/sheriff sales has lowered property values, but the assessed values have not been lowered. The caps are not a perfect solution, but they help.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Greg Steuerwald (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Tim Stewart (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
449 Greenacres Drive
Crawfordsville, IN 47933
Phone: (765) 366-8695
E-mail: timstewart765@yahoo.com; gstewart@tctc.com 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

James Stytle (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
601 Tuttle Avenue
Crawfordsville, IN 47933
Phone: (765) 361-8556
E-mail: 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: YES. Local governments should have the ability to seek alternative funding that eases the burden on property owners.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: YES.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: It should continue if local governments are given an alternative means of raising school funding.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost $210 million in 2009. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: YES. The money should come from the state reprioritizing where it spends its finite resources.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: NO.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: NO.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: NO.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? DID NOT RESPOND.

Ryan J. Cummins (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
420 Meadows Ct
Terre Haute, IN 47803
Phone: (812) 236-6402
E-mail: rjcusmc@msn.com; candidate@cumminsforindiana.com
Website: www.cumminsforindiana.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected to the state legislature in House District 43, I intend to vote yes on SJR 1. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): History and experience show that the legislative and executive branches of the respective governments do not control spending. The incentives inherent in our governmental system work against frugality and thrift in the operation of government. Because of that, the constitutional caps are necessary. I would support caps at these levels (1, 2 and 3 percent). There is no reason, other than political considerations, that residential, rental/agricultural, and commercial property is treated differently. In the future, I would work to equalize constitutional caps in property taxes. Constitutional caps are not the ironclad safeguard that many citizens might think. Past legislatures and executives have not adhered to the language of the constitution of our state as they swore to do. For a good discussion of this, see the Winter/Spring 2008 issue of the Indiana Policy Review. It is available at www.inpolicy.org (registration is free, but required).
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Persons interested in understanding the positions I take on issues will find information to do so at my website.

Darrell Goldman (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
4725 N County Road 25 W
Bainbridge, IN 46105
Phone: (765) 522-2622
E-mail: dgoldman@indy.tds.net  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: After reviewing SJR 1, I would have to say I would support it. The only thing better would be no property tax. I believe that if we can reduce the size and cost of our government and tax burden, the method of collecting those taxes starts to be much less important. A consumption tax or flat income tax would be most attractive to me. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): This would be an improvement. The Libertarian Party of Indiana is at the forefront of the battle to eliminate or reform property tax laws in the state. Proposed in the early 2000’s, the Libertarian Party activists proposed a sensible alternative for moving Indiana away from unconstitutional taxes. The plan, designed for incremental change, allows for equitable assessment of property based upon square footage in three classifications: residential, industrial/commercial and agricultural. The eventual goal for most in the party is the elimination of the tax.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

Nancy A. Michael (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
330 Highfall Ave.
Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: (765) 653-6213
E-mail: nancymichael@broadreach.net
Website: www.nancymichael44.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Amos Thomas (Uncertain - DESPICABLE)

Rick Marshall (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
3170 E. Lindsey Lane
Vincennes, IN 47591
Phone: (812) 882-8629
E-mail:
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Bob Heaton (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
3255 E Dallas Dr
Terre Haute, IN 47802
Phone: (812) 299-3275
E-mail: bob.heaton@verizon.net 
Website: http://www.bobheaton.com:80/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected in Nov. 2008, I pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

John P. Hardy (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
54507 David Drive
Elkhart, IN 46514
Phone: (574) 264-2868
E-mail: johnphardy@yahoo.com; john@hardy4staterep.com  
Website: http://www.hardy4staterep.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I believe this can be done without a constitutional amendment. I am not totally against it.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Wes Culver (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
2020 Elkhart Road, Suite B
Goshen, IN 46526
Phone: (574) 533-6300
E-mail: wesculver@wesculver.com; wes@wesculver.com; electwesculver@wesculver.com; Wes@ElectWesCulver.com
Website: www.ElectWesCulver.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Unless property tax assessments are locked in we haven't gained anything. For me to be fully supportive of the 1-2-3 property tax it needs to have assessment's valuation of properties locked in at a reasonable 2%+- annual cap. It is important to lock in assessments with the 1-2-3 tax measure to ensure the government does not artificially raise assessments in order to get more taxes. I want even more protection then what we are currently offered. I would vote for the 1-2-3 as a compromise if we can't lock in the assessments, but I feel we need to work at doing this right and permanently. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes. And the assessed valuations’ annual increase should be capped at 2 percent annually. Though the current property tax proposal is not perfect, it is better than having no caps. People could be assured their taxes won’t go higher and at the same time be looking for ways to lower our property taxes. In other words, it creates a ‘ceiling’ for property taxpayers, but does not create a ‘basement’ on how low they could go. I’d like to work at ways of lowering the 3 percent property tax on businesses. Also, the 2 percent rate on rentals is hurting low-income renters more than landlords.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I am all about lowering the cost of government and passing that savings on to taxpayers.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I'm for Senate Joint Resolution 1.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Vince Turner (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
1715 Berkey Ave.
Goshen, IN 46526
Phone: (574) 533-3994
E-mail: vtbashor@aol.com  
Website: http://www.vinceturner08.com/  
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: No. I support a 1% cap on all property ... not just residential.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I believe the 1-2-3 cap will severely hamper the state's efforts to attract and retain business and industry. We need to find a way to rely less on property taxes overall ... which is why I support 1% across the board.

State Representative District 50:

Daniel J. (Dan) Leonard (POLITICAL HOG - DESPICABLE)

Lon Keyes (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
P.O. Box 589
Fremont, IN 46737
Phone: (260) 316-3224
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Donald (Don) Papai (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
PO Box 254
Avilla, IN 46710
Phone: (260) 897-4166
E-mail: pp_dp404@yahoo.com  
Website: http://www.donaldpapai.com/index.html 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: After reviewing Joint Resolution 1....... I would be in favor of it.......Yes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

David Yarde II (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1194 St Rd 8
Garrett, IN 46738
Phone: (260) 402-2730
E-mail: dyarde@verizon.net   
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (10/14/08 Indiana Family Institute Voter Guide): Favors passing the constitutional amendment on property tax reform again next year (must pass two sessions) so it can go on the November general election ballot for a vote.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

David Baxter (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
537 N East St.
Greenfield, IN 46140
Phone: (317) 462-0043
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

John D. Jessup (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
212 Illinois St.
P.O. Box 148
Shirley, IN 47384
Phone: (765) 571-0813 
E-mail: john@jessupfor53.com 
Website: http://www.jessupfor53.com/index.htm
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I pledge to vote yes for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1, so that Indiana residents will have the opportunity to vote on the measure themselves. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I support the concept of caps on property tax bills. I am not sure that this legislation is anything more than a political gimmick to make taxpayers believe their representative finally did something about a problem that has been festering for years. I do not fully agree with the separate caps for different business types. I also believe that we will find that when our governments need more funding, they will find a way around the caps, probably by simply reassessing our properties at higher values. If we as citizens want low taxes, we must elect people who are going to cut out excessive spending. We need to change our thinking. ... We always say, “Taxes are too high!” We should realize that spending is too high.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: If elected, I promise to keep the people of district 53 informed of exactly what is going on at the statehouse. I will look out for the People's best interests and not a political party's best interests. I will work to improve Civics Education and reform our election laws to enable all Hoosiers to be part of the process.

Rex Bell (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
17059 State Road 38
Hagerstown, IN 47346
Phone: (765) 489-5363
E-mail: rex_bell@msn.com     
Website: http://www.electrexbell.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: While I am sure the intentions of SJR 1 are good, I have serious reservations about it's ability to protect Hoosiers from the effects of arbitrary re-assessments, and the inherent unfairness of property taxes, which in effect prevent people from ever really owning their home. I pledge to continue to work for the complete elimination of property taxes. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. The Constitution should be amended to eliminate property taxes. In the interim, property should be taxed on an equal and decreasing formula.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: I will work to reduce and eventually eliminate both property and income taxes. Once government is reduced to it's proper size, necessary functions should be funded by sales tax and user fees. I can see circumstances where local governments could have control over those user fees, depending upon the services offered.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: YES.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: This question assumes a desire to tweak and maintain property taxes as a source of funding for the state. I have no such desire, but I am in favor of giving property owners as much relief as possible until those taxes are eliminated. 
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners would cost $210 million in 2009. QUESTION: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: NO.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: Only if our legislators continue to spend the revenue from gas taxes on projects that have nothing to do with transportation. 
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: New terrain I-69 should be scrapped in favor of the 41 route.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: YES.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? NO RESPONSE.

Jon Bell (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
3463 South County Road 600 East
New Castle, IN 47362
Phone: (765) 730-8819
E-mail: jonbellmf@gmail.com       
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): That won't solve anything, they will just raise the assessed value of our homes when they need more money. We need to do away with them completely.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: NO.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: YES. 
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: YES.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners would cost $210 million in 2009. QUESTION: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: NO.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: NO. 
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: The I-69 extension should be scrapped, and the money spent on other upgrades.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: I'm not opposed to tolls as a means for funding certain  through roads, although I feel the I-69 extension as proposed is too expensive and intrusive for the benefits it will produce.  
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? NO RESPONSE.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 2, 2004, General Election
1. Guiding Principles for 2005-07 Biennium Budget. DID NOT RESPOND.
2. Opinions on Homeowner Property Taxes. DID NOT RESPOND.
3. Position on Indianapolis to Evansville Interstate. DID NOT RESPOND.
4. Additional Comments. DID NOT RESPOND.

Rhonda Roush Bell (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
235 W. Wolfcreek Rd.
Columbus, IN 47201
Phone: (812) 342-6550
E-mail: help.me.rhonda.59@sbcglobal.net 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Brook Tarr (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
3900 E. CR 840 N
Orleans, IN 47452
Phone: (812) 653-1205
E-mail:
Website: http://www.brooktarr.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

State Representative District 63:

John G. Burger (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
1310 Valley View Drive
Jasper, IN 47546
Phone: (812) 482-9845
E-mail: burgerturkeyfarms@insightbb.com  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD: (10/13/08 Evansville Courier & Press story): "Changing the constitution is a drastic step to take" Burger said. "I think it's only a Band-Aid approach to fixing the property-tax issue."
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Mark B. Messmer (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
795 E Scherle Lane
Jasper, IN 47546
Phone: (812) 634-1589
E-mail: m.messmer@insightbb.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (08/29/08): I am supportive of property tax reform but think SJR1 leaves to many unresolved reform ideas out as it is currently written and is not worthy of a vote without any changes. Would you rather get the bill done quickly or correctly? I say correctly is better. RECORD: (10/13/08 Evansville Courier & Press story): Messmer supports that constitutional amendment.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Al Cox (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
PO Box 1425
Nashville, IN 47448
Phone: (812) 988-9373
E-mail: alcoxliberty@aol.com         
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): NO!!
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Jack R. Gillespie (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
480 South Shore Lane
Brownstown, IN 47220
Phone: (812) 358-2392
E-mail: backdrjack@yahoo.com  
Website: http://drjack.gillespie.home.comcast.net 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected I will vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008. Although this may limit property tax and give some "relief," I will not be satisfied until state and local spending is decreased and the property tax assessment process is changed to meet the constitutional requirement of fair and uniform. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Not necessary if property tax is replaced, or a measured fee is based on square footage. Any caps should be the same for all buildings regardless of use. EXPLANATION: I do not believe there is any contradiction between my answer to two different questions. The Indy Star question does not ask how I would vote on SJR 1 as the Watchdog Indiana question does. The Indy Star question asks "Should Indiana's constitution be amended....."? My answer was "Yes, if property taxes are not replaced..." (which they are not likely to be in 2009). My comment "..but caps should be the same..." indicates my opinion that the proposed caps are not fair and uniform as required by the state constitution. However, the Watchdog Indiana question and explanation that SJR 1 had to be voted on again in 2009, would justify my vote to provide "some relief," even if I believe there is more work to be done to change the complicated, unfair, non-uniform property tax assessment process. In my opinion, the Legislature has had 12 years to make the property tax assessment process fair and uniform and SJR 1 still fails to do so, although I agree SJR 1 will offer taxpayers some benefit.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I will also work to returning some of the local responsibilities assumed by the state and counties to local government, with state and county support, rather than eliminating local government. As it was in 2004 my campaign will be truly grassroots, and probably not even party supported. My opponent will have the support of most of the unions and lobbyists. 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 2, 2004, General Election
1. Guiding Principles for 2005-07 Biennium Budget. My guiding principles will be primarily spending cuts and improvement in efficiencies to maintain critical services until the state economy improves.
2. Opinions on Homeowner Property Taxes. I will support all efforts to eliminate property tax altogether. If the tax is not eliminated then I would consider caps.
3. Position on Indianapolis to Evansville Interstate. All road construction and maintenance should be supported by a fair and uniform user type fee. 
4. Additional Comments. I will not have a full time job to interfere with listening to and representing the people of House District 66. After working 36 years as a veterinarian diagnosing and treating animal diseases, I would like to use some of my agribusiness experience to help "treat" some of the state government problems. I previously served as an elected delegate to several state conventions, but never considered having enough time to serve in public office until I retired from my full time job. I spent the last year studying the issues, traveling around House District 66, and listing to the people. From listing to the people, I have gotten some good ideas for my mission: "Helping Hometowns Remain Hometowns."

Mike Keller (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1946 East County Road 450 North 
Milan, IN 47031
Phone: (812) 689-6625
E-mail:  
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Martin W. (Marty) Voegele (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
3254 S. County Road 850 E.
Greensburg, IN 47240
Phone: (812) 852-4097, 513-594-8789? 
E-mail: martinwvoegele@aol.com 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (10/08/08 by phone): As we discussed on the phone earlier, I do not support the constitutional amendment to the Indiana Constitution on the current legislation to "cap" the property tax at 1%, 2%, or 3%. My objection to this legislation is partially due to it being at odds with our constitution. Article 10 Section 1 reads in part; "The General Assemble shall provide by law, for a uniform and equal rate of property assessment and taxation...."  Please note the wording "uniform and equal." I also believe this is a smoke and mirror gimmick being used for political reasons. My understanding is that the cap is on assessed value. I am concerned that is is to easy to increase the tax rate to raise property taxes. Five or ten years from now we will be burdened by increased taxes while the current administration will be long gone. If legislators wish to truly cap property tax, they could cap the tax as a percentage of the sale price of the property. This amount is true market value, not some evaluation decided by a bureaucrat who has vested interest in increasing tax revenue.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I Am concerned by rising taxes on the citizens. I am fiscally conservative and strongly believe in a small but effective government. There needs to be a solution to the ever growing tax burden. But most of all taxes must be fair, uniform and equal.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: YES. But only with voter approval.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: YES.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: Reliance on property tax should be eliminated but would require replacement by sales and/or income tax.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost $210 million in 2009. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: NO.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: Unknown. Mass transit will prove extremely important in the future and state gas taxes would be used to finance it.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: All $3.7 billion from the Indiana Toll Road Lease should be invested into a Next Generation Fund and only returns exceeding the rate of inflation should be withdrawn and used. The New Terrain design of the I-69 extension should not be built. I-70 and US 41 should be upgraded and be funded by this fund. An I-70 and US 41 upgade will save taxpayer money.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: YES. Any future toll road will probably be put on the block to the highest bidder. I oppose the privatization of public infrastructure.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? My campaign is self funded and I will represent the people of the district not a political party or special interests.

Jud McMillin (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1033 Cliff St.
Brookville, IN 47012
Phone: (765) 647-4105
E-mail:           
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Floyd Coates (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
998 N 900 W
Lexington, IN 47138
Phone: (812) 866-4900
E-mail: floyd@apmc.com          
Website: http://www.floydcoates.com/index.html 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): A cap on any tax, including property tax, is a step in the right direction toward limiting the obsessive spending habit of government. This is a good step toward abolishing the property tax completely. Government should be put on a strict diet. The problem with assessment is its various interpretations by various assessors. Depending on the extremely complex rules of assessment and the large gaps in interpretation, coupled with personal judgment of the assessor, assessments are by nature unequal and unfair. Income tax and sales tax are very simple, very clear, very uniform, and require no huge bureaucracy, such as is required to maintain the property tax system.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: That government governs best which governs least. The best way to clean up waste, fraud, inefficiency in government is to unfund it. The problem with property tax is that it ought to be abolished. Any questions, please call me.

Tim Hunt (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
12406 Covered Bridge Rd.
Sellersburg, IN 47172
Phone: (812) 248-4316
E-mail: tim@thekoettergroup.com  
Website: www.friendsoftimhunt.com 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (08/30/08): YES, SJR 1 is a step in the right direction. However, the 1% homeowner property tax cap is just one layer of taxes that we as Indiana residents need to cap. Tax caps without cutting government spending cannot fiscally occur. What are we doing to make sure our businesses are not made to make up the loss in revenue? Businesses do not pay taxes, People do, in reduction in wages, bonuses and benefits. I truly would rather eliminate the entire Property tax system. Renting our home from the government after paying off a 30 year mortgage just doesn’t seem fair.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I am very taxpayer Friendly because of my traditional Hoosier family values and my positions on responsible government and education. I am pro-life, an advocate for second amendment gun rights, and a supporter of a constitutional amendment defining marriage between one man and one woman. I support a balanced budget and a responsible government that is honest, transparent, and efficient. Wasteful spending should be reduced and taxes lowered. I have signed the Americans for Tax Reform pledge opposing all efforts to increase taxes. I favor education reform that enhances administration efficiency and increases spending on students. I am not a politician nor do I want to become a part of the problem.

Edward D. (Ed) Clere (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1701 DePauw Ave.
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone: (812) 949-5078
E-mail: ed@dragonflyrealty.com; dddcbark@aol.com
Website: http://www.edclere.com/  
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Steve Davisson (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
P.O. Box 341
Salem, IN 47167
Phone: (812) 883-2751
E-mail: daviss@blueriver.net
Website: http://www.stevedavisson.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes, I would vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I believe SJR 1 is a safety net for home owners across Indiana, but I am also inclined to work in the future for even greater tax breaks for homeowners, farmers and businesses. I believe it is important that we complement this legislation with spending caps and make sure that state and local governments live within their budgets just like every Hoosier family does.

Dennie Oxley (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
2907 West State Road 64
Caswell, IN 47175
Phone: (812) 338-2339
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

William Marcrum (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
3940 Windsor Lane
Tell City, IN 47586
Phone: (812) 547-5346
E-mail: willmmd@hotmail.com
Website: www.docmarcrum.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I have stated publicly that I favor ELIMINATING property taxes as a revenue source as I believe that paying a lifetime mortgage to the county is unreasonable and unfair. Until such time as property taxes are eliminated, I support limiting the ability of government to raise them and SJR 1 is the best tool in the box today.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: My website has the capability for the voter to contact me with questions or requests. I have and continue to campaign on the promise to represent the voters of the 74th District, not a political party or special interest group.

J. D. Strouth (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1021 N Fairlawn Cir E
Evansville, IN 47711
Phone: (812) 476-3380
E-mail: JDStrouth@JDStrouth.com
Website: www.JDStrouth.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes. No elderly person, who has paid mortgage payments and property taxes for years, should lose his/her home due to becoming unable to pay property taxes. And government should be more frugal with taxpayers' hard-earned money.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: For several years I have been frustrated at times with votes cast by my State Representative, Dennis Avery. Some of his votes did not represent me or, in my opinion, the voters in the 75^th District. I think Mr. Avery is losing touch with his constituents after rubbing shoulders with Indianapolis lobbyists for 34 years while holding the same office. This district deserves better representation! My experience of 17 years with Product Acceptance & Research, an independent Evansville-based market research firm, has made me more in tune with people’s opinions. While earning the rank of Eagle Scout many years ago, I permanently had instilled in me the desire to serve others. Since my son would be graduating from high school in May, I believe now would be the time to make myself available for public service. I decided in February to offer myself to serve the people of the 75^th District as their representative in Indianapolis. With your support, I would like to provide better representation for Southwestern Indiana. Property taxes had escalated beyond reason before state legislators passed the property tax relief bill in March. Many concerns remain about whether we taxpayers will actually see a reduction in overall taxes and whether local government will be adequately funded. I will monitor the effects of this law and prepare to propose adjustments as needed.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: Yes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: No.

Gail Riecken (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
5935 Knight Drive
Evansville, IN 47715
Phone: (812) 477-3319
E-mail: rieckens@aol.com; marilyn.ratliff@gmail.com 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

James Pete Rapp (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
4274 N 900 W
Richland, IN 47634
Phone: (812) 483-5823
E-mail: 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Matthew S. Lehman (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
663 Lehman St.
Berne, IN 46711
Phone: (260) 589-8597
E-mail: mattlehman@bixlerinsurance.com
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. I do not support amending the constitution at this time. I feel the tax cap is a satisfactory fix for the current problem, but I do not support a change that potentially will handcuff future legislators as they address the financial needs at that time.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Herbert (Jack) Evans (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
4205 N. Washington Rd.
Ft. Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 432-2091
E-mail: jackevans@techie.com  
Website: http://www.allencountylp.org/index.html 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected, I would vote Yes for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008. I believe that any reduction of funds taken from the electorate and passed into the general assembly is to be promoted at all costs.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

Steven B. Heaston (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
3335 E Magley Lane
Columbia City, IN 46725
Phone: (260) 691-1332
E-mail: zo6vette02@earthlink.net  
Website:  
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: We need that 1% cap to protect homeowners. It's a starting place for additional reform because of assessment irregularities. I have had my property tax appeal denied at the Indianapolis level because even the tax court judge knew I was right. There hasn't been a person, and there have been many, that have looked at what I showed them in Whitley County that has not been totally astounded at the inconsistencies (errors)  in the assessment of everyone's property. I've had my property for sale for a little over 4 months. The highest offer that I've had so far was $104,000. My property is currently assessed for $220,800. In the last Legislative Session, SJR-1could have helped the people even more if we hadn't raised the sales tax 1%. LOWER TAXES THAT ARE A DIRECT RESULT OF THE REDUCTION IN GOVERNMENT SPENDING WILL BENEFIT THE PEOPLE EVEN MORE. This is not 'politics' on my part; I believe that it is very achievable. I assure you that no one in the State of Indiana will fight any harder than Steven Heaston to lower the burden of property taxes on the people. I've appeared in front of Luke Kenley's committee and Luke Kenley has come up to Whitley County to speak to me. I have been to the Governor's office and my wife and I've been told that everything that I showed them on that day I was 100% correct about. We have paid out of our own pockets to have Mr. Joseph Gomeztagle from Lake County, the man who challenged the Indiana Constitution and won, visit Whitley County. There was one person who did not come to visit, but was invited. That person was Matt Bell, State Representative for  District 83. Instead I got a nasty telephone call from his wife. I have never spoken with anyone who has told me that they wanted their property tax raised; they all agree that we need our property taxes lowered.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: With the help of my articles in the local newspaper and the help of the people in Whitley County I've had two candidates voted out in the primary election for supporting the wheel tax on our vehicles that Mitch Daniels gave to the State Trooper's Retirement Fund. One of these people was the chairman of the Republican Party in Whitley County. I've had the restrooms opened up to the public in the BMV in Whitley County,  where older. handicapped people and their children had to wait in lines over two hours because Mitch Daniels and Matt Bell chose to close too many BMV's too quickly. I was given the "Heart of Gold" in 2006 by the Whitley County Community Foundation because for forty-one years I have helped people in any way that I can and never charged one person for anything that I did for them. Recently, I participated in the Whitley County Weigh-In Challenge that consisted of 142 teams of four people on each. I was Captain of the "Round-Lakers" that consisted of one handicapped person, one person who had to have a hip replacement during the 5 month contest and two other people. The odds of a team such as this even placing in the top ten was very slim. With my leadership this team lost 262 pounds and finished number one in the county. I recently was a very active part of the Code Blue Remonstrance in Whitley County to postpone the building of a new high school during the economic times that we are currently living in. I was asked by two members of the Republican party if I would give my support. One week ago in Whitley County the results of this Remonstrance petition were released to the public. To me, this was a demonstration of the great democracy that still exists in this great country. Code Blue was a winner. Property taxes will not increase for the people of Whitley County because of a new high school. This was the will of the majority of the people. In the future it will have to be part of a referendum. The Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire is the first that I have answered in regard to any type of survey. Everyone else has asked for something that would benefit themselves financially. YOU asked for something that would help the people of the State of Indiana. I have not entertained the others. I have not taken any political contributions towards my campaign because my soul is not for sale. What we must understand is that when Matt Bell votes against the will of the majority of his people as he did with the toll road, daylight savings time, and the rushed closing of too many Bureau of Motor Vehicle offices, this is no longer a government run BY the people. My intention is to always vote the will of the majority of the people I represent. With the help of the people in District 83 we will give Matt Bell a "ferocious" challenge.

State Representative District 84:

Mark Wehrle (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
7802 Belton Lane
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
Phone: (260) 749-8417
E-mail: kmchdbb@yahoo.com
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? ANSWER: YES.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? ANSWER: NO.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? ANSWER: YES.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners would cost $210 million in 2009. QUESTION: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten? ANSWER: YES. QUESTION: If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? DID NOT RESPOND.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? ANSWER: YES.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? ANSWER: YES.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? ANSWER: NO.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Major Moves was "wrong"... long term mistake! We need more D's at local, state and federal offices to "balance" the political system and "check" our leaders. It is a shame that whoever has the most money wins! And many are unopposed. I remain optimistic. 

Phyllis J. Pond (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Edward O. DeLaney (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
4445 N Washington Blvd
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Phone: (317) 283-5592
E-mail: ed@eddelaney.org; ed@delaneylaw.net 
Website: www.eddelaney.org
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I am confident that the current crisis in property taxes will lead to an amendment to our constitution. I propose to support an amendment that will work and will not require repeated tinkering. Our decision to amend the constitution to end the inventory tax has come to haunt us. In short, we need to tread carefully. I believe that we must be cautious anytime we look to amend Indiana’s Constitution. We have amended the constitution many times, but rarely have we repealed an amendment. I look forward to examining the impact that the property tax caps have and if elected, evaluating the proposed constructional amendment that will come before the next General Assembly
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Adam E. Nelson (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
431 Natalie Lane
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Phone: (317) 255-7728
E-mail: adamnelson86@earthlink.net
Website: http://voteadamnelson.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Pamela Hickman (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
8164 Dean Road
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Phone: (317) 946-4404
E-mail: pahickman@gmail.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: The issue is not the 1% cap but the high valuations of property in a downward market. Homes that are over appraised  adds to the problems for many seniors. The commercial tax of 3% just rolls down to the consumer as well as the 2% tax on rental property. Add the 1% increase in income tax and a penny increase in sales tax (a 16% increase) simple puts a heavy burden on those who least can afford it. My stand: the tax issue is not fixed and needs more work. This is why I would not vote on the tax package as is. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: What would help families would be a repeal of state sales tax on fuel especially before the cold winter weather. Indiana is only one of seven states who charge a tax on fuel. The governor should  repeal this tax for immediate relief to working families. How much more can they endure before welfare looks like a better option when buying a gallon of gas or a gallon of milk becomes a choice. What does this say about our leaders. Regardless of the reasons or cause for gas prices or what the long term answer is to this problem, we should think of our hard working citizens NOW. Control spending and stop the selling of Indiana. Any business person knows that privatization adds money to the costs. Take our Health Care system and the new toll road's higher cost to our citizens, as examples, not to mention the Clear Cutting and selling of our forests in Indiana that has increased 500% since this Governor took office. Even Purdue University says the Governor's logging is Clear Cutting and not a good choice long term for Hoosiers. We are lining CEO pockets on the backs of Hoosiers. "When does this insanity stop" is the question we should be asking. Cut the Pork, control spending and create jobs that pay a decent wage would be a start.

Terry Gingles, Sr. (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE) 
6501 Breckenridge Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46236
Phone: (317) 823-7679
E-mail: temiki@sbcglobal.net   
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

John F. Barnes (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
7902 Willow Wind Circle
Indianapolis, IN 46239
Phone: (317) 375-0120
E-mail: john_barnes57@comcast.net
Website: www.Barnes4StateRep.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I believe that we must be cautious any time we look to amend Indiana’s Constitution. We have amended the constitution many times, but rarely have we repealed an amendment. I look forward to examining the impact that the property tax caps have, and if elected, evaluating the proposed constitutional amendment that will come before the next General Assembly.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Chris J. Swatts (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1426 N. Leland Ave
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: (317) 357-9147
E-mail: swattsforstaterep@gmail.com; swattsforstaterep@sbcglobal.net
Website: www.chrisswatts.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: YES.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: The Indiana General Assembly recently passed immediate property tax relief to put Indiana in the right direction, but I believe all Hoosiers must do more to protect homeowners and businesses with permanent property tax reform.  When elected to the General Assembly in 2009, I will support to put the constitutional property tax caps amendment on the 2010 ballot.   This will ensure that we have something in place permanently for the Indiana taxpayer.  In addition, I will also work with others in the future to continue the discussion and movement to look at ways to eliminate homestead property taxes and wasteful government spending.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Michael B. Murphy (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Timothy Huber (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
6910 Bannock Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46221
Phone: (317) 856-6726
E-mail: thuberfamily@aol.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. All property should be taxed at the same percent. We should stop tax abatements, and taxes should be paid later.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I think we need tax control, along with less government.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTIONS: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten?  If YES, where should the state get the funds needed for full-day kindergarten? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Stephanie DeKemper (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
8717 Gordonshire Dr.
Indianapolis, IN 46278
Phone: (317) 329-8178
E-mail: stephanie@dekemperforyou.com 
Website: http://www.dekemperforyou.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I am in support of an amendment to the Indiana Constitution, however, not the current version of this SJR1. I believe that we need to fix the language around senior citizens income and home values to include adjusted income. I also have concerns on the frequency of reassessments, specifically in light of the current economic downturn where we see homes losing value. I am sure there are other areas that need to be strengthened and we will see many amendments to the legislation that will lead to necessary adjustments to the proposed constitutional amendment. My preference would be to wait and see the outcome of the current tax obligations and the response of the people before making a final decision.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I do not pledge to vote in favor of it or against it at this time. I am a support of the resolution but feel that it needs to be strengthened. In the end, if it can not be strengthened SRJ1 in its current form is better than nothing at all.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I am prepared to support SJR 1 in a more strengthen form. Currently the legislation for Senior citizens with income of 30-40K and home value of 150K have a maximum cap of 2%. I strongly feel that the language should include adjusted income since many seniors making more than that, although not much more. have health related expenses that lower their overall income. In addition, increasing tax based on the 1% of the assessed market value concerns me, as we are currently seeing an economy that is in recession and home values are decreasing, will there be a decrease in tax?  Where is the additional mandate that State governments have to reduce spending during hard economic times. I believe that we have been overtaxed and that we have experienced significant government waste, particularly with the privatization and out sourcing without holding vendors accountable to preform under their contracts. With gas at an all time high, has their been any discussions to the windfall that tax revenue has brought to the state. Where is the build Indiana money currently going? I say all of this to demonstrate that I am a strong supporter of amending the Indiana constitution, but we must make sure that we have solid amendments because we will not be able to make correction easily. I am worried about the poor, about the middle class and the loss of jobs, the growing numbers of people eligible for food stamps, Medicaid, and TANF, many of whom had jobs a year or two ago. We have an obligation that we have to reduce unnecessary spending, increase contractual oversight of our vendors and hold them accountable, support the creation and recruitment of jobs that pay a living wage, and as legislators be accessible and accountable to our constituent that we  have  asked to trust us to represent their interest. I will not be a legislator who is part of the problem, but part of the solution as a well informed and knowledgeable legislators that makes decision based on a full review of  the issues and how they impact Hoosiers and not party lines.

Phillip D. (Phil) Hinkle (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Shayne Merritt (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
8311 Gallant Fox Dr.
Indianapolis, IN 46217
Phone: (317) 882-7503
E-mail: havenhs@comcast.net 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. I do not support a constitutional cap on property taxes. However, I do support lower taxes in general and believe that homeowners' property taxes should not exceed 1.5 percent.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Chad D. Miller (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
5052 Audrey Circle Apt. 108
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Phone: (317) 454-6272, (317) 329-8180
E-mail: chad@vote4miller2008.org
Website: http://vote4miller2008.org/default.aspx 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I am in full support of SJR 1 and plan to vote in favor if elected in 2009 for the exact same resolution. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes. The problem that we observed over the past several years was that taxpayers would see their property taxes continue to rise and last year some were even forced to sell their homes. Home ownership is the ultimate goal for most taxpayers and if they can't afford their property taxes then that goal, that dream vanishes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I would vote against anything that could possibly burden taxpayers further.

Cherrish S. Pryor (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
4667 Falcon Run Way
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Phone: (317) 216-0967
E-mail: cherrishspryor@lycos.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Ray G. Shearer (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
P.O. Box 36517
Indianapolis, IN 46236
Phone: (317) 696-0865
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Lawrence T. Newman (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
6007 Hillside Ave. East
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: (317) 252-9529
E-mail: lawrencelawfirm@hotmail.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (08/22/08): I do pledge to vote in 2008 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008. I see Senate Joint Resolution 1 as merely an interim step in the resolution of the property tax crisis. It is my position that property taxes should be abolished completely. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: The framework of this country was built on the primacy of the individual, and the right to unfettered ownership of private property has been a cornerstone of American liberty. Thus, it is the duty of representative government to protect property rights by keeping governmental interference at a minimum. Property taxes are a dual assault on the individual and his fundamental right to own property. This past year’s confiscatory rise in property taxes highlighted governmental abuse of its power over personal property rights. The ensuing tax rebellion recalled the actions of the Sons of Liberty at the birth of our nation – the Stamp Act Revolt and the Boston Tea Party. Property taxes are a blight upon hardworking Hoosiers who have spent their lives earning a decent living in order to own their homes and businesses, which can be confiscated nonetheless.  Long after homes and businesses are fully paid for, the specter of property loss looms large for ordinary citizens, especially the elderly and persons on fixed incomes. 

Mary Ann Sullivan (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
315 W. Walnut St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: (317) 917-0791
E-mail: ma@maryannforhouse.com; vmhammond@gmail.com 
Website: www.maryannforhouse.com
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I am concerned that setting unequal tax rates for different types of property may negatively impact our economic competitiveness with other states. As Indiana struggles to attract and retain good jobs, businesses will evaluate the attractiveness of our business environment, and our tax climate will certainly play a role in their decisions. I am not sure that given the challenges of our state's weak job growth, permanently setting these percentages in the Constitution is the best strategy. Additionally, increases in rental and business property taxes are usually passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices and lower wages. Homeowners may take comfort in believing they are being given a break relative to other classes of property owners, while in fact they will be paying an "invisible" tax by paying more for goods and services. To the extent that this is the case, homeowners may or may not realize any savings.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

John Meuser (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
3305 Decker Ridge Dr.
Indianapolis, IN 46258
Phone: (765) 491-1690
E-mail: meuserj@gmail.com; john@johnmeuser.com
Website: http://www.johnmeuser.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: Yes. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I will always prefer repeal over the capping amendment, but would vote for the cap if it came up to vote when I am in office.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I do have some reservations about SJR1/HB1001. I believe that it is a mistake to have a subjectively measured tax on what is essentially debt for many citizens. I would feel much better about the amendment if it removed the subjective assessment process and replaced it with an objective measurement such as square footage. I am also disappointed that repeal was not given more serious attention by our legislature. My other concern about SJR1/HB1001 is that a close reading of the Indiana Constitution reveals that as of now there is no constitutional support for a tax on non-commercial property and this amendment seems like a Trojan horse to add that support. However, despite all of these concerns, I feel that this amendment is a very important step in the right direction of providing lasting property tax relief and will support it if I am elected.

Ed Angleton (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
1215 Polk St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: (317) 916-4202
E-mail: edangleton@edangleton.com; eangleton@sbcglobal.net    
Website: http://edangleton.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: YES. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): It is my belief that the proposed property tax caps violate the spirit and intent of Article 10, Section 1 of the Indiana constitution, "Section 1. (a) The General Assembly shall provide, by law, for a uniform and equal rate of property assessment and taxation and shall prescribe regulations to secure a just valuation for taxation of all property, both real and personal." By installing differential rate caps for residential, rental and agricultural, and business properties, the legislature has shifted the burden from homeowners to landlords, renters, farms of all sizes, businesses, both large and small, and industries of all sizes. This again demonstrates the need for the repeal of property taxes. I will begrudgingly vote for SJR1 to give Hoosier taxpayers the option but will campaign against it.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? ANSWER: While I believe SJR 1 and HB1001 do not go far enough in providing the real meaningful relief that Indiana ’s taxpayers deserve, they are a start in the right direction. One of the biggest problems we have is the method used in assessing the value of real property. The Indiana Constitution requires that methods of taxation be “uniform and equal”. This is not occurring (see edangletonsrants.blogspot.com for examples of how the system is failing). We need to move away from subjective valuation and use a definable, objective method of assessment not based solely on opinion. I favor basing the assessment on the square footage of the land and the square footage of any buildings on that land for residential property. Commercial and industrial property would be assessed in a similar manner, but would also have a factor reflecting the revenue producing capability of the property.  I also favor non-partisan oversight of the DLGF, changes in the way that tax abatements are granted and the payment, by the state to the counties, of a property tax compensation for state owned properties that are not on the tax roles. Only the Statehouse itself would be exempted.

Carl L. Dahlin, Jr. (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
4720 Ivy
East Chicago, IN 46312
Phone: (219) 398-5290
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Lonnie M. Randolph (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
1919 E. Columbus Dr.
East Chicago, IN 46312
Phone: (219) 980-1735
E-mail: attyrandolph@aol.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Larry W. Balmer (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
16909 13 Road
Plymouth, IN 46563
Phone: (574) 935-4741
E-mail: oldsalt@hughes.net; hphendon@yahoo.com 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Gregory D. Kelver (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
PO Box 222
Union Mills, IN 46382
Phone: (219) 324-4229
E-mail:     
Website: http://www.sensiblealternative.org/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - November 7, 2006, General Election
1. BACKGROUND: Effective December 1, 2002, the Indiana sales tax increased from 5% to 6% with a promise that the proceeds would be used to decrease homeowner homeowner property taxes by 16.3%. As summarized at http://finplaneducation.net/betrayal_incompetence.htm, Indiana General Assemblies and Governors have turned the promised 16.3% decrease into a Pay 2007 property tax increase of 20.3% for the average Hoosier homeowner. Local governments are now pushing for more flexibility to levy income, sales, and other taxes under the guise of property tax relief. QUESTION: Should local Indiana governments be allowed to impose additional income, sales, and other taxes? NO. I believe that Indiana's property tax system should be radically restructured (lower) into a uniform , equal, and simple square footage based flat tax on land & structures to reduce the burden on property taxpayers. Education funding should be pulled off of the property tax system and parents should receive an individual education grant or a tax credit to be used to expand parental choices in education.
2. BACKGROUND: The state's budget the last two fiscal years has been balanced without fund transfers for the first time since 1998-99 (see http://finplaneducation.net/indiana_cash_flow_data.htm). QUESTION: Should the state's total budget expenditures be no more than total revenues for the next biennium? YES. I believe the state budget should be reduced by 3-5% per year.
3. BACKGROUND: The state's current budget is balanced with the inclusion of a one-time increase from $35,000 to $45,000 in the state-paid Homestead Deduction for Pay 2007 property taxes. This decreases property taxes for the average homeowner by 6%. QUESTION: Should the $45,000 Homestead Deduction be continued beyond 2007? I believe that Indiana's property tax system should be radically restructured into a simple, flat tax on land & structures to reduce the burden on property taxpayers. Education funding should be pulled off of the property tax system entirely and parents should receive an individual education grant or a tax credit to be used to expand parental choices in education.
4. BACKGROUND: Mandatory full-day kindergarten for all of Indiana's 75,000 kindergartners could cost up to $150 million. QUESTION: Should the state pay for full-day kindergarten? NO. Education funding should be pulled off of the property tax system entirely and parents should receive an individual education grant or a tax credit to be used to expand parental choices in education.
5. BACKGROUND: The $3.7 billion proceeds from leasing the Indiana Toll Road ("Major Moves") will be used to establish a Bond Retirement Account to pay off bonds selected by the Indiana Finance Authority, an Administration Account, an Eligible Project Account for highway improvements throughout Indiana, and a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the provision of highways, roads, and bridges. QUESTION: Do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? NO. The proceeds from the Toll Road sale should have been used to pay off debt as required by Indiana's constitution.
6. BACKGROUND: "Major Moves" projects include $694 million for a new terrain I-69 extension from Indianapolis to Evansville as well as a $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund. QUESTION: Should the "Major Moves" expenditures be combined with the Next Generation Trust Fund proceeds to build a new terrain I-69 extension without state tax increases? I am opposed to a "new terrain" I-69 - no additional tax (of any type) should be necessary. 
7. BACKGROUND: The 2006 "Major Moves" legislation authorizes a toll road for an I-69 extension between Martinsville and Evansville. QUESTION: Do you favor legislation that removes the toll road authorization for an I-69 extension? I am opposed to a "new terrain" I-69 but I favor user fees (tolls) to pay for interstate highway maintenance and improvements instead of using general taxation paid by all taxpayers.
8. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? I favor a radical overhaul of property tax and education funding similar to the Libertarian Party of Indiana Plan that was proposed in 2001. I am strongly opposed to any tax plan such as Hometown Matters that would permit new taxes on sales, income, food, beverages, or hotel rooms to be imposed by local officials.

Allen L. Stevens, Jr. (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
705 Union Street
Union Mills, IN 46382
Phone: (219) 767-3144
E-mail:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Mike Settles (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
409 N Vine
Elkhart, IN 46514
Phone:  
E-mail: cmsettles@juno.com       
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Don Metzler-Smith (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
59272 Lewis Street
Elkhart, IN 46516
Phone: (574) 575-1582
E-mail: dlmetzle@alumni.iu.edu
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Until "trending" plays out, and we know more about exactly how urban areas are affected, a constitutional amendment for the caps is premature. I would like to see a tax formula constructed that includes a futuristic stance in a proactive way rather than reactive. My question to incumbents of both parties has always been: Where were they the last nine to 10 years since the St. Johns decision was handed down? Couldn't they see the inevitable instability and erratic nature of property taxes? I care deeply for the future of Indiana and the state's education structure, workforce, and job status. Messing around with time and highway assets only distracts from the fundamentals needed for Indiana to be a leader in the region in the 21st century.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Carlin J. Yoder (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
59246 State Road 13
Middlebury, IN 46540
Phone: (574) 370-9110
E-mail: cyoder@ccsgoshen.org
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER (07/22/08): You have my pledge. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Fred Demske (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
911 Eagle Trace
Kendallville, IN 46755
Phone: (260) 347-2437
E-mail: demskeforsenate@live.com; demo009@hotmail.com; ldemske@comcast.net 
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Marlin A. Stutzman (POLITICAL HOG - Part of the Problem)

Randall Head (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
5003 Waterbury Court
Logansport, IN 46947
Phone: (574) 722-5542
E-mail: rhead10@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.electrandyhead.org/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): The constitution should be amended to do away with property taxes, period. The current caps are a step in the right direction because they lessen our reliance on property tax, but it would be fairer to have one cap for all types of property instead of discriminating against farmers and business owners.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: I will vote for SJR 1 if elected to the Indiana State Senate.  I believe that the government should exist to support taxpayers, and not vice versa. The 1, 2, and 3% caps represent the first step in the right direction for  Indiana taxpayers. My first preference is to eliminate property taxes altogether, and my second choice is for a property tax cap that is equal for all types of property. The compromise that has been reached is far better than doing nothing, and I will vote for it because it reduces our reliance on property taxes.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I have been a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for over thirteen years in Indiana, and I understand how local government works. In addition to property taxes, my priorities include obtaining longer sentences for child molesters, eliminating loopholes that let criminals slip through the system, reducing waste in government spending, and representing the interests of agriculture and small business. I believe that smaller government is better, that legislators should be held accountable for the money they vote to spend, and that the most important quality a legislator can have is the willingness to listen to his constituents.

Linda L. Klinck (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
2822 High St.
Logansport, IN 46947
Phone: (574) 722-1241
E-mail: dlklinck@verizon.net 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Luke Kenley (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Connie Lawson (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Mike Brinegar (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
4552 N 600 West
McCordsville, IN 46055
Phone: (317) 989-8455
E-mail: brinegar@hrtc.net; brinegarforsenate@gmail.com 
Website: http://mikebrinegar.com/default.aspx 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes, but property taxes should be repealed on owner-occupied single family homes valued at $75,000 fair market value or less and on rental property for lower-income families with some limitations or exceptions. (That last statement to complete would require a lot of research and very careful consideration.) Agricultural property being farmed by the owner should be taxed at the same rate as homeowners; agricultural property being rented should be at the rental property rate. CFOs and CAFOs should be considered industrial and taxed as Industry/Business or higher due to environmental issues. Indiana's taxes are very regressive in that the tax burden falls on those who can least afford to pay them. Corporate tax rates are considered extremely low in the state by the Department of Commerce. For the past several decades there has been a continued shifting of tax burden from business to the individual. When elected I will support legislation to promote a progressive income tax structure, based on ability to pay, which will insure a strong economy and adequate funding for the services provided by the State of Indiana.. A healthy state economy is a foundation for quality of life for Indiana's citizens. A healthy economy requires Indiana government to take an active role in providing such services as quality education, sound infrastructure, accessible health care, responsible human services, effective public safety and adequate recreational and cultural amenities. The financing for these services must be raised in a fair and equitable manner. I will support "Indiana's Common Construction Wage Act" and will work to raise the minimum wage. The wealthiest 1% of all Americans earned a whopping 21.2% of all the income in 2005, while the bottom 50% of Americans earned only 12.8% of all income. This is the largest income inequality since 1928. In Indiana, the top 5% of families have an average income of $195,217, while the bottom 20% of families earn an average of only $18,590. A large portion of the gap is caused by private companies that pay their top-level executives at rates that are out of proportion to the salaries earned by laborers in the same company. Recent tax policies have also unfairly allowed the rich to prosper at faster rates.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Todd DeGroff (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
8650 Driftwood Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Phone: (317) 514-3831
E-mail: tdegroff@comcast.net  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: If elected, I would not vote for SJR 1. It crudely panders to the public's present anger at property taxes WHILE DOING NOTHING TO ADDRESS THE UNDERLYING PROBLEM! The problem is excessive layers of government with overlapping taxing authority, not necessarily the assessed value of property. Only 50% of the recent increases in property taxes was attributable to increases in assessed value; the rest was the result of tax levies by overlapping government units. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. I believe this amendment, which applies different levels of assessment to different categories of property (regardless of value), may violate constitutional guarantees of Equal Protection. In any event, owners of commercial property and rental property would simply pass these burdens along to consumer-customers, who are already facing increases in income and sales taxes. SJR 1 is a quick and sloppy attempt to address a complicated, systemic problem. Indiana requires a top-to-bottom assessment of its taxation system, coordinated with efforts to streamline government, such as those recommended by the Kernan-Shepard Commission.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I strongly endorse the conclusions of the Kernan-Shepard Commission report, which observed that in some jurisdictions 5 or 6 governmental units--some unelected--have property taxing authority. If we implemented the Kernan-Shepard Commission's recommendations and streamlined Indiana's antique government structure (which was adopted about 1850, before the Civil War, when Indiana's second Constitution was ratified), we could save billions of dollars, and solve our property tax problems. Delivery of all types of services would be cheaper and much improved, and Indiana would become a friendlier climate for business development.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questionnaire - May 2, 2006, Primary Election
1. What will be your guiding principles for the 2007-2009 biennium budget? Specifically, what mix of spending cuts, tax increases, and/or reserve depletions will you support? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
2. What are your opinions regarding homeowner property taxes? Specifically, do favor freezing all property taxes and funding budget increases through both individual and business income tax increases? Or, do you favor a mixture of income tax, sales tax and meals tax increases to reduce property tax growth while providing additional revenue to local governments? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
3. Considering the "Major Moves" legislation passed by the General Assembly this year, do you anticipate the need for any state gas tax increases the next ten years? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
4. What is your position regarding the construction of an interstate from Indianapolis to Evansville? Specifically, should the $500 million Next Generation Trust Fund that is part of "Major Moves" be used exclusively for a new terrain I-69 extension so as to avoid state gas tax increases? HAS NOT RESPONDED.
5. Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? HAS NOT RESPONDED.

Steve Keltner (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
7527 Cape Cod Lane
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Phone: (317) 576-1937
E-mail: votekeltner@comcast.net    
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I would vote to pass SJR 1 in its current form.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I would like to  point out that I view SJR1 as a stepping stone but not a total solution. Thirty states currently have some form of tax payer protection (Bill of Rights), Indiana is NOT one of them. SJR 1 is the FIRST step in that process. It is the beginning, not the end. Other ways I plan to change tax burdens: (1) My job creation plan could take 70,000 people statewide off unemployment and provide them with salaries around $40K/year and benefits. "Benefits" means they also come off of Medicaid = more savings for taxpayers. The last benefit is the revenue generated by the industry, around $500 million a year in the Ohio system. Did I mention that this works in Ohio? (2a) Medicaid need to be revamped! After spending more than 6 years practicing in a busy Indiana ER, serving mostly under-served Hoosiers, I can see (as all practitioners in my field) where the waste is and how to make the system more functional. For example: On any given weekend, hundreds of Medicaid patients will lie in indiana hospital beds at a cost of about $2,000 a night each. If Medicaid legislation was modified to cover "long term care" they could be cared for at home by a visiting nurse for about $300 (or less) per night. I have verified this though VNA. It's simple and would save tax payers millions. (2b) Indiana Medicaid allows recipients to crash emergency rooms at will. The care is excellent, but by nature it's fragmented. It is also the most expensive type of care. Other states have realized great savings by requiring these patients to keep their appointments with their approved doctors and not abuse the ER. The details will bore you, but the results have been very effective in other states. (3) Taxation for all the new roads is a disgrace. Yes we have to pay for their upkeep and that requires taxes. However, the dedication to roads at the expense of all other forms of mass transit is unacceptable. We need Mass transit asap. But for it to be effective, we must have infrastructure. Before we spend $160 million on a train to service the Northeast corridor only, lets build sidewalks and bike paths to park and ride stations to facilitate commuter busses in all corridors. Remember the $500 million I mentioned in the first question? Some of that could be used to help fund that transit infrastructure. I could give another 10 or 15 ways I'll help protect taxpayers (like me) if elected. If you want more let me know. I spent 2 years in the run up to this election coming up with specific solutions to reconcile the tax problem. I believe that makes me different than either of my opponents.

Teresa S. Lubbers (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

Ken Kern (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)
5407 E Pleasant Run Pky
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: (317) 353-6038
E-mail: cdkern@rocketmail.com; kernin2008@yahoo.com  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Yes. 
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Patricia Miller (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Greg Taylor (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
3855 North Delaware Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Phone: (317) 925-1182
E-mail: gtaylor@cgslegal.com
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I think that the legislature has done a good job to try to fix this property tax problem. It would be premature to say that these valuation caps will work or not, without looking further into this issue. I do believe that homeowners should never have to decide whether or not they can afford a home based on their property tax bill.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? ANSWER: At this time I really think that the 1% cap is good, however, I cannot tell you that it will work, without seeing how it effects the tax base.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: Not at this time.

James Rainey (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
6219 Raleigh Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: (317) 353-0991
E-mail:  
Website: 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Michael Cesnik (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
6703 Raritan Ct
Indianapolis, IN 46221
Phone: (317) 821-8711
E-mail: majlcesnik@sbcglobal.net         
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Barry Campbell (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
1402 E Kelly St
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: (317) 490-1469
E-mail: altic.lock@gmail.com; campaign@lowertaxestotheground.com            
Website: http://lowertaxestotheground.com/default.aspx 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: No. I advocate the elimination of our current property taxes, as well as local income taxes and sales taxes, you might think your organization might consider me taxpayer friendly. The first result of a cap on property taxes is skyrocketing real estate prices (as happened in California after Proposition 13). And since SJR 1 does nothing to curb government spending, and does nothing to prevent an increased tax burden as a result of higher income and sales taxes, I cannot imagine how it could be considered taxpayer friendly. SJR 1 is a boon, first and foremost, to land speculators and owners of vacant, abandoned, and run-down properties. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): No. Property improvements need not, and should not, be taxed at all. Land value should be taxed equally, regardless of use.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? ANSWER: I support land value taxation (LVT). I advocate raising the tax on the value of unimproved land, first to the extent that we can eliminate all taxation of property improvements, then to the extent that we can eliminate sales and income taxes. The first result of increasing the tax on land while decreasing the tax on improvements is to spur the economy, with land being put to its most productive use. Every study of communities that have used LVT confirms that construction and building improvements increase (as measured by the value of building permits issued). Real jobs are created. More new homes and businesses are built. The increased supply reduces their cost. Without further government intervention, urban blight is reversed. Urban sprawl is reduced as vacant, abandoned, and run-down property is put to productive use. Transportation costs are reduced. Mass transit becomes more efficient. The average homeowner's tax burden is reduced, as is the tax burden for most businesses and family farms. As LVT reduces the profit from land speculation (that a property tax cap would increase), more land is made available for sale, reducing its cost.

Terry Rice (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
1665 Danaher St.
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: (317) 889-3687
E-mail: mcoonrice@comcast.net 
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I think that it is way too early to tell whether or not an amendment is wise. To portend that property tax relief will be replaced by other revenues is not an optimistic outlook. Again, Indiana's economy faces the same delimnas as do other states. We are not immune from lack of high-paying jobs, cost of housing, loss of housing, high health care costs. Our economy will have to be a priority initiative if we are to support vital community services based entirely on state revenues. Until we see a sustained and long-term upturn in the Hoosier economy, I believe that it would be an irreversible mistake to make the caps an amendment to the state Constitution.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Brent Waltz (Taxpayer Friendly - Part of the Solution)

Joseph F. Osborn (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
7399 N Co Rd 425 W
Brazil, IN 47834
Phone: (812) 442-0828
E-mail: osbornj@verizon.net; teresadosborn@verizon.net 
Website: http://www.josephfosborn.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Cap property tax for homeowners at 1 percent, rental & agricultural property at 1 percent; business Property at 3 percent.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Leslie O. Compton (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
708 Cory Lane Lot #1
Bloomington, IN 47403
Phone: (812) 925-2200
E-mail:  
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Warren Goodrich (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
881 West Mausoleum Road
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Phone: (317) 398-9514
E-mail: wgoodrich@starband.net; wgoodrich@warrengoodrichforindianasenate.com 
Website: http://www.warrengoodrichforindianasenate.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? ANSWER: I have been studying this subject in depth and find we have a major problem with the assessments not being true values of a majority of the properties these caps are designed for. Also the assessed value is based in 2 years past not the value of what this property can be sold for today while setting the amount owed for property tax for the tax year. Some of these assessed values are so inflated that the owners would love to sell for the assessed value declared for their property but will never find a buyer at the declared assessed value or in many cases for even half of the assessed value declared for their property. What good is a limit or cap on the percentage of assessed value when we have much to do to make the assessed values declared to be accurate for what they can be sold for. If the assessed value is inflated to say double the true value the cap you are seeking would in reality be double tax for the unrealistic assessed valued declared creating twice the tax due to twice the assessed value compared to the true sellable value at current rates. I am seeing a major need to watch this bill in action and wait till the bugs are worked out of this bill to create more accurate assessing of true values before we create a constitutional amendment. I am not saying the cap is not needed but saying we need some experience from the affects of this bill allowing adjustment corrections to the bill before we mess with the constitution. The caps are in the bill now and will become effective without the constitutional amendment. Why the hurry for the constitutional amendment without proper research and time to experience results to prove the bill is without need for change to correct adverse reactions caused due to the bill ? It is my opinion the Constitution should be respected causing reluctance to create an amendment to it without knowledge the amendment is without flaw first. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): Not at this time. While I believe the legislature and Senate provided a good bill to make a fast action to reduce property taxes this year, I believe this subject will be revisited for some years to come, making new adjustments to a very big change created by this property tax and school funding bill. I believe creating a forced cleanup of waste within county and city government should be active for a few years to see the results. Then after we have seen what actually is working to truly reduce property taxes or eliminate these taxes preferably, we should consider making permanent by amending the Indiana Constitution to better serve our citizens in the long-term future.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Jean Leising (Taxpayer UNfriendly - Part of the Problem)
5268 Stockpile Rd.
Oldenburg, IN 47036
Phone: (812) 934-4118
E-mail: jeanleising@aol.com; jillkoch@etczone.com
Website: http://www.jeanleising.com/ 
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND. RECORD (www.indystar.com/2008race): I believe caps should be equal for all categories.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

State Senate District 44:

Matthew S. Colglazier (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)
588 Humpback Bridge Rd
Heltonville, IN 47436
Phone: (812) 834-5431
E-mail: mscolgla@indiana.edu; rscolglazier@gmail.com; marticolglazier@att.net
Website:
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - November 4, 2008, General Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote in 2009 for the exact same version of Senate Joint Resolution 1 that passed in 2008? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.
Watchdog Indiana Candidate Questions - May 6, 2008, Primary Election
1. QUESTION: Do you pledge to vote for Senate Joint Resolution 1 in 2009? DID NOT RESPOND.
2. QUESTION: Do you wish to make some additional comments about your candidacy? Do you have an E-mail address? Do you have a website? DID NOT RESPOND.

Brent Steele (Uncertain - Part of the Solution)

State Senate District 50:

Vaneta Becker (Taxpayer UNfriendly - DESPICABLE)

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This page was last updated on 01/11/14 .