Public Records Investigation
On September 11, 2025, a LaPorte County resident observed two sitting County Commissioners enter a local diner accompanied by their executive assistant, the Chief Deputy Auditor, the County Assessor, a member of the County Economic Development Commission, and a representative of the County Visitor’s Bureau. The group sat together in a semi-private back room of the establishment.
Because two of the three county commissioners were present, constituting a quorum, the resident raised questions about whether the gathering complied with Indiana’s Open Door Law. The presence of multiple county officials and board representatives in a non-public setting prompted a request for records to determine whether county business was discussed outside a properly noticed public meeting.
The goal of this investigation is not to assign motive or intent but to ensure compliance with Indiana’s Open Door Law and to provide transparency around how public business is conducted. By publishing the relevant records and responses in full, residents can review the facts independently and draw their own conclusions.
Why This Investigation Is Published Here
As a candidate for LaPorte County Commissioner, I believe voters deserve transparency not just in campaign promises but in how county government actually operates.
This investigation documents a public records issue using original source material. It is published to demonstrate how I approach facts, accountability, and process—not to prejudge outcomes. Updates will be made as additional information becomes available.
Below is a chronological record of documents obtained during this investigation.
September 11, 2025 — Initial APRA Request
The county attorney received the initial request for any records of the meeting’s organization, including emails, calendars, phone calls, and text messages.
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September 25, 2025 — County Response to APRA Request
The county attorney responded to my September 11 request. The meeting wasn’t orchestrated and was just a chance gathering.
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October 7, 2025 — Formal Complaint to IPAC
My formal complaint with the State of Indiana Public Access Counselor (IPAC). Including the basis of my complaint, applicable state statutes, and a request for oversight and a ruling.
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November 3, 2025 — IPAC Acknowledgement of Complaint
Notice of Formal Complaint; 25-FC-260. IPAC cc’d me in on their email to the president of the Board of Commissioners and the county attorney.
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November 13, 2025 — County Response to IPAC Complaint
I received a response from LaPorte County concerning my IPAC complaint, which included a correspondence from an economic development contractor. They continue to assert that this was a coincidental encounter, and the county attorney directed several personal remarks toward me.
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November 14, 2025 — My Rebuttal to County’s Response
This is my response to the county attorney’s reply to IPAC, in which I outline the deficiencies in the county’s response and reference relevant state statutes.
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This investigation has been formally submitted to the Indiana Public Access Counselor (IPAC).
As of this publication, no advisory opinion has been issued. This page will be updated if IPAC releases a determination or if additional records are obtained.
