London
Three Republicans, including an incumbent, are seeking the Republican nomination for the Bartholomew County Council District 1 seat.
Scott Bonnell, 60, said he has spent most of his first term listening carefully to all sides of issues. However, the farmer and Columbus fire inspector says he tries to be practical with public funds, but to make sure the county gets what it needs to efficiently function.
Challenger Dave London, 69, describes himself as a fiscal conservative. The Cummins Inc. retiree said he would like to find a way of returning some of the county’s excess funds to the taxpayers.
Greg Patterson, 54, is well-known for officiating at several sports events, as well as his extensive work with his church. He describes himself as a “servant leader”who feels council members need to visit department heads to better understand their operations and challenges.
Do you favor a minimum number of jobs, as well as a wage threshold, for a company to qualify for real and personal property abatements?
Scott Bonnell: I am not in favor of a minimum number of jobs or a wage threshold for company qualification. Tax abatements are to encourage new investments, the redevelopment of underutilized areas, and the rehabilitation of outdated structures. I see these as ways in which the community can invest in itself and would like to encourage companies to take these opportunities, rather than apply limitations.
Dave London: In order to provide the tax abatement to a business it is very important that it will bring economic growth to Bartholomew County. Any jobs created should definitely have competitive wages to draw workers to the area. I don’t think there are a specific number of jobs but each application for tax abatement should be looked at in its entirety. If the business will be increasing the tax base over time, each application should be considered. If a business expansion doesn’t provide any benefits to Bartholomew County and the taxpayers then it may not be a good investment.
Greg Patterson: Based on an analysis of each individual company with their job impact on the short term and long term for Bartholomew County will determine if they are entitled to a tax abatement. A “one size fits all” definitely doesn’t apply when considering this question. The companies will be evaluated on an annual basis to ensure they follow through on their commitments. My past experience in estate planning gives me the ability and experience to look at the big picture. Tax abatements are a balancing act between investments in the company and the benefits for the community. I seek a “win-win” for both parties.
A wage study that compares a Bartholomew County employee’s salary and benefits with their counterparts in other counties has sparked debate among the current council. How should this data be used in the short-term and long-term?
Scott Bonnell: Wage studies are an added tool for the council to use when determining wages and benefits. Short-term, it can help the council make data-informed decisions regarding departments or individuals that need a wage adjustment. Long-term, it provides a reference point for Bartholomew County’s standing in comparison to other counties. Studies like these lead to more informed decisions to get our county in a place that compares favorably with its counterparts and are useful during budget hearings.
Dave London: I’m already on record for using the information in the salary study to bring our county employees up to the midpoint of what other county workers earn. Having spent many years in management and in hiring, I know how turnover affects all aspects of the operation from training and morale, to the ability to provide service to the public. In addition the time spent recruiting and hiring qualified staff is a large expense that has an overall effect on the budget.
Greg Patterson: Since deciding to run for county council, I’ve met with more than 20 department heads and elected officials. During my visits, I’ve consistently heard of the challenges to retain key employees because of pay. This study gives an impartial, data-driven evaluation to help determine fair wages for employees. Short-term, I believe we should seek input from department heads to determine any inconsistencies in pay, and then make adjustments to make sure our county employees are paid a fair wage. Long-term, the council should create a plan to make sure our county employees are paid competitive wages.
What do you believe is the most important investment the council can make with taxpayer dollars over the next two years?
Scott Bonnell: The council needs to continue being fiscally responsible with taxpayers’ money to support and grow the local economy and retain taxpayers’ trust in their elected officials.
Dave London: Public safety is at the top of the list. I recently went on a tour of the county jail and it was a real eye opener. Our sheriff’s department and the jail staff do an amazing job, sometimes doing their own repairs to save money. They also provide treatment options to the inmates that I believe can have a positive impact on future incarcerations. Also investment in infrastructure is crucial. Keeping our roads and bridges safe and functional is a priority.
Greg Patterson: While serving on the St. Peter’s Church Council, we created a capital fund with a separate line item to build a savings account for improvements and future repairs for our buildings. Bartholomew County’s current budgeting process doesn’t include such a line item. The county has many buildings that all need to be maintained: County Jail, Govt. Building, Youth Services, Court Services (transitioning), E911 Service, etc. Each of the buildings are of different ages and therefore may need different capital improvements (such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, roof, etc). Bartholomew County needs to be fiscally responsible now, setting money aside just like a responsible homeowner, to cover capital improvements and future emergencies.
