Wendzonka makes bid for council

Mon, May 12 2008

— For nearly a decade, Trevor Wendzonka has witnessed the workings of local government. The former Elkhart Truth reporter and current spokesman for the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department has filed for an at large seat on the Elkhart County Council.
Wendzonka has filed paperwork with election officials to run on the Republican ticket for one of three at-large council positions. The primary will be May 6.
Prior to joining the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department two and a half years ago in a public relations role, he covered government and politics for The Elkhart Truth newspaper from 1998-2005.
“As a reporter, I highlighted the good government can do while explaining to taxpayers how their money was being spent. I fairly pointed out abuse and excess when necessary, and have never shied from asking the important and difficult questions,” Wendzonka said. “Those are qualities voters should want in all elected officials.”
Wendzonka said the council must be more effective with the annual budget process, giving department heads clear direction on available funds and expectations. The council also must encourage departments to embrace technology and create more cost-effective operations.
“The overriding goal is providing the best value for taxpayers,” Wendzonka said. “County government’s portion of the property tax rate is low, but certainly it can be better.”
Wendzonka has not sought elective office previously.

Biography

Trevor Wendzonka, 34, lives in Harrison Township with his wife and daughter. He graduated from Elkhart Memorial High School in 1991, and earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University South Bend in 1996.