Kosciusko County GOP treasurer's race: Cindy A. Nolton

Fri, May 16 2008

— With Kosciusko County Treasurer Kent Adams not seeking another term, the field is open for a new clerk. Hoping to fill that spot are two Republicans, Cindy Nolton and Sue Ann Mitchell, one of whom will received the GOP nod during the May 6 primary.
At this point, there is no Democratic candidate.

Cindy Nolton of 910 Chestnut Ave., Winona Lake, is running for the GOP nomination for Kosciusko County treasurer.
Nolton is the financial secretary for Warsaw First Christian Church, past treasurer for the American Association of University Women, member of the Indiana State Treasurers’ Association and member of the Kosciusko County Republican Women’s Club.
The Kosciusko County native graduated from Warsaw Community High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Indiana Wesleyan University and an associate’s degree in accounting from Ivy Tech.
She has a daughter, Tammy Todd, a son-in-law, Mike Todd, and two grandsons, Zachary and Andrew Todd.

What makes you the more qualified candidate?

For 19 years I worked for United Telephone/Sprint in the accounting and revenue departments and the 911 Addressing Department. I have worked in Kosciusko County government for 11 years, with two years as the bookkeeper in the clerk’s office, six years as deputy treasurer and over three years as chief deputy in the Kosciusko County Treasurer’s Office.

What issues do you believe need to be addressed and why?

Property tax changes are a top issue facing our community, as well as the state of Indiana. Taxpayers coming in the Treasurer’s Office often voice their concerns and frustrations with this ongoing problem. Some assume that the treasurer's office is why tax bills are delayed, bills did not reach the correct person, tax rates and assessments change, state laws must be followed to collect delinquent taxes, etc. I see these issues as an opportunity to explain to taxpayers how each government office and the legislators have different responsibilities in the taxing process, and they must work together to address the concerns.
Another issue facing our community is how the property tax reform changes of HB 1001 will affect local government entities.
Lower amounts collected will affect each branch of local government, and will force some hard choices in personnel and available services. When questions are asked in the treasurer's office about these changes, I intend to answer honestly about what has and will happen with the reform changes.
Serving the people of Kosciusko County in a timely, efficient, knowledgeable and respectful manner is a top priority for the treasurer’s office. I would look forward to addressing any questions the taxpayers have and making sure each person is treated with respect.

What I hope to accomplish while in office:

1 — Streamline the process of tax payments taken by local banks.
2 — Frequently meet with local media to keep the communication lines open with the public.
3 — By volunteering to speak with local service organizations, I will keep them informed of changes and answer any questions regarding the treasurer's office.
4 — Continue to serve the public with honesty, integrity and respect.
5 — Strive to be the person who listens and cares for the people I serve.