State Representative District 59 GOP Republican candidate
Name: John D. Counceller
Political party: Republican
Age: 71
Residence: Columbus
Occupation: Business owner
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Trine University, 1969
Previous offices held: None
Previous offices sought: None
Community involvement: Indiana Society of Plastics Engineers past president, Chamber of Commerce past board member, Leadership Bartholomew County 1984, Harrison Lake Country Club, Columbia Club of Indianapolis, Columbus Elks 521 member and past exalted ruler (president), Columbus Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, St. Bartholomew, Moose, Eagles and Sons of the American Legion.
Immediate family: Wife, Diana; four sons and three daughters
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Q: As one of five states without a hate-crime law, should Indiana pass a law that would allow judges to deliver stiffer penalties for crimes of bias?
A: Yes, the question has reached a level of almost national consensus and we should comply with an Indiana agreed-to version.
Q: In the aftermath of school shootings, what steps can Indiana take to create a safer environment for its students?
A: Create a culture where any threat at any level is dealt with immediately and ensure that every level of government acts as the law provides.
Q: Should handgun license fees in Indiana be maintained or eliminated? Why?
A: Maintained. They have been in place for years and it is a minor charge. There is not a good reason to quit collection fees.
Q: Growing numbers of children are at risk due to impacts of escalating opioid abuse. What are some first steps the state should take?
A: Follow the lead of the efforts in Columbus/Bartholomew County. Educate. Improve pay for social workers and add more staff.
