
To help you make informed choices May 4 when you step into the
voting booth, the Tribune-Star surveyed primary election candidates
in contested Terre Haute races.
We asked a variety of questions we believe are specifically germane
to the constituencies of each race. We mailed the surveys to candidates,
and candidates answered the questions and returned them.
For the sake of consistency and fairness, we imposed a limit of
100 words per answer. Answers exceeding that limit were trimmed
and are accompanied by an editor's note.
Each candidate was offered the opportunity to include a photograph
with his or her reply. Candidates who supplied a photograph or
already had one on file at the Tribune-Star are pictured; the
others are not.
The answers appearing in this section are in the words of the
candidates, who are solely responsible for the accuracy of their
statements. Minor errors of grammar have been corrected.
Terre Haute mayor

Democrat
Name: Judith A. "Judy" Anderson
Address: 426 Meadows Court, Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 234-5426
Date of birth: Dec. 29, 1941
Education: Wiley High School, 1960; Indiana State University,
1965, elementary education major; St. Francis College, 1974, early
childhood education major.
Work/professional history: Current county auditor, seven years;
two-time county recorder; two-time city council member; first
grade and Headstart teacher, 1965 to 1968.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
If we cannot find a project worthy of our support, TIF should
be abolished. The TIF district siphons off local tax dollars that
could go to our schools, library, airport, etc. Center City will
bring 33 renters downtown who will use 33-plus parking spaces.
I don't feel this is a catalyst for further development.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not and what the
next step might be. Rehabbing the Terre Haute House with housing
and historical credits and private investment capital that restores
the Mayflower Room and lobby for public use is a great solution
for downtown. We must seek creative financing and private investors
to invest in downtown with our support. All present proposals
for the city are nothing more than dubious tax and spend solutions.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as mayor, what actions would you take to help solve
that problem? Economic development and efficient management of
present resources are of paramount importance. We need to combine
areas to economize and save tax dollars. The city needs to unite
with the county to attract jobs.
4. What should the relationship be between the mayor and the city
council, and what would you do to make that relationship effective?
The mayor and city council should be open-minded with a vigorous
exchange of ideas and plans to make Terre Haute a better place
to live, work and play. Together, we must realize that tax dollars
are very precious and tax and spend solutions are rarely, if ever,
effective. Respect must be a two-way street and I am looking forward
to working with all nine council members.

Name: Jim Jenkins
Address: 1701 S. Brown Ave., Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 235-4439
Date of birth: June 14, 1948
Education: Schulte High School, 1966; Indiana State University,
1973, bachelor's degree in criminology.
Work/professional history: Hired by Vigo County Sheriff's Department,
1973; graduated from Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, 1974; County
Council, 1981 to 1984; sheriff, 1987 to 1994; mayor, 1996 to present.
Served as past president of the Terre Haute Symphony and Hamilton
Center and board member for the Boy Scouts, the Alliance for Growth
and Progress, the Chamber of Commerce, Western Indiana Employment
and Training Service, and TREES Inc. Member of the Kiwanis, Indiana
Sheriff's Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Knights of Columbus
and American Legion Post 104.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
One word - jobs. More than 150 of our union workers are committed
to this project. Their hard work will result in a vibrant downtown
that will attract even more jobs and businesses. People will once
again look to downtown as a place to shop, eat, work, play, live
and raise their families. This project is a catalyst that will
help return downtown to its glory, when it was a thriving, bustling
hub of energy and enthusiasm. It's an investment in our economy,
our community, our workers and our future. It's the first step
to progress.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not and what the
next step might be. Our downtown is the front porch of our city.
It's where we welcome our visitors and tourists. It's where we
show pride in our culture, our business community and our heritage.
It's the key to a healthy community. There are many projects under
way to restore and revitalize that pride - projects that provide
jobs, entertainment and places to live. This has been a priority
of our administration, but it's only the beginning. We need to
watch the process during the next four years and examine ways
to keep it working for a positive, prosperous future for all Terre
Haute.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as mayor, what actions would you take to help solve
that problem? We are attracting more good-paying, high-skilled
jobs than ever before. But Interstate 69 could devastate our future.
Our administration is committed to leading the fight against the
state's plan for I-69, which would bypass us completely and drive
jobs away. We will fight to upgrade U.S. 41, so jobs and commerce
will continue to flow to Terre Haute. At the same time, we will
continue to develop innovative projects like the business incubator
for start-up companies and the industrial park's new sewer system
that already has brought $320 million in new business and 675
new jobs to our community.
4. What should the relationship be between the mayor and the city
council, and what would you do to make that relationship effective?
Being a community leader means more than parades and ribbon-cuttings.
It means strong leadership and the ability to make tough decisions.
Sometimes, we don't always agree. But that's what progress is
all about - learning from our experience and making things happen.
By working together, we are building a bright future. Crime is
down nearly 10 percent. Government is more honest and efficient.
There are more good-paying jobs than ever before, improved parks
and better quality of life. But there's more to do. We've got
Terre Haute working again. With your help, we can keep it working
for you.
Name: Frank Monk
Address: 820 S. Center St., Apt. 3, Terre Haute, 47807
Phone: (812) 234-2526
Date of birth: May 25, 1938
Education: nine years
Work/professional history: Did not respond
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
It would cost the taxpayers more money.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not and what the
next step might be. Yes - to trade downtown instead of out of
town. The next step will be to redevelop all local streets.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as mayor, what actions would you take to help solve
that problem? I would open the two closed fire stations and get
new equipment for them.
4. What should the relationship be between the mayor and the city
council, and what would you do to make that relationship effective?
I would make peace and would come to an agreement on problems
that occur in Terre Haute, Indiana.
Candidate George Reedy did not return the questionnaire.
Terre Haute
City Council, District 1

Democrat
Name: Edward R. Brett
Address: 2322 S. Ninth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 234-2181
Date of birth: Oct. 28, 1959
Education: Terre Haute South Vigo High School, 1978; Rose-Hulman
Institute of Technology, bachelor's degree, chemical engineering,
1983; Indiana State University, master of business degree, 1989.
Work/professional history: Hanger engineer, Cherne Contracting
Corp., Marble Hill Nuclear Generating Station, 1983 to 1984; management
trainee, applications engineer, project engineer, plant manager,
Cardox Corp., 1984 to 1985; applications engineer, Glas-Col Corp.,
November 1989 to 1991; city engineer's office, 1991 to May 1996.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do not support the Center City project. The Center City project's
success is not assured; it is a gamble. Gambles should be financed
with private funds, not tax dollars.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. The downtown
area is important. It is difficult to answer this question without
knowledge of city budget amounts that would finance future redevelopment
efforts downtown.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I would suggest the council
form a committee to identify problems in the community and their
relative importance. These problem findings can then be presented
and made public. Decisions can then be made with community input
on how to solve these community problems.

Name: Louis Joe Duby
Address: 1815 S. 21st St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-5789
Date of birth: Sept. 21, 1949
Education: Wiley High School, attended Indiana State University
and Ivy Tech.
Work/professional history: Presently employed with Freitag-Weinhardt
for the past three years, owned and operated own construction
company, employed as a meat cutter for 14 years, currently belong
to Local Labor Union 204 and Teamsters Union 135. Also have been
affiliated with Local Union 692 for many years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
The issue is no longer whether I support or do not support the
Center City project. It is here. It is being built with local
contractors and local unions, which means the money will stay
here in Terre Haute by utilizing the local gas stations, grocery
stores, cleaners and many more of the public and private businesses.
The economic effect of this will be that our local businesses
will prosper from the Center City project.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I do believe
the city should concentrate further effort on redeveloping downtown
because with the combined efforts of ISU and public and private
enterprises it is possible to see new retail stores, the restoration
of the Terre Haute House, and a new downtown parking garage become
reality. The downtown area may not be as it was 40 years ago,
but as with the changing of times we can build a new downtown.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? We would like to think our
economic development, our streets, gutters, sidewalks are our
biggest problems in Terre Haute, but these problems will never
fully be addressed unless we start to deal with the ongoing strife
between some city officials and city employees. We can make Terre
Haute not only a great place to live but an excellent place to
work and raise a family if we can start showing some compassion
and understanding with each other rather than all the animosity
that seems to be present. As a member of the council I will strive
for this goal.

Name: Donald M. Seprodi
Address: 1805 S. 25th St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 235-5430
Date of birth: Oct. 10, 1954
Education: Graduated from Schulte High School, 1972.
Work/professional history: Wholesale/retail lumber sales for 15
years; residential construction/remodeling for 10 years; currently
firefighter/advanced EMT for the city of Terre Haute since 1994;
and also employed by Zimmerly Development.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do not support the Center City project. I believe it is a waste
of taxpayers' money and the expense will far outweigh any benefits
to the citizens of this city.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Yes, the city
should concentrate on developing downtown. It will probably never
be the retail district it once was, but with the nucleus of students
and housing in the area, we should concentrate on refurbishing
what is there plus create some more specialty shops. The core
of night life, our restaurants, etc., is already there; it needs
to be expanded.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I don't believe that there
is a major problem, but there are several areas of concern. One
would be to make sure our tax dollars are spent effectively and
efficiently, to be accomplished by research and within the constraints
of the budget. Other areas of concern are that our streets are
in need of repair. Our public services, police, fire and street
departments need to be upgraded. Permanent, well-paying jobs are
needed. To do this, the elected officials and community leaders
all need to work together for a better quality of life in Terre
Haute.
Terre Haute
City Council, District 2

Republican
Name: Ryan J. Cummins
Address: 420 Meadows Court, Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 235-0097
Date of birth: March 18, 1956
Education: 1974 graduate of Schulte High School; 1978 graduate
of Indiana University, Bloomington, bachelor's degree; Marine
Corps Officers Basic School, Quantico, Va.; Army Artillery Officers
School, Fort Sill, Okla.; Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Warfare
Defense School, Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md.
Work/professional history: Marine Corps, active duty, 1978 to
1982; Marine Corps Reserves, 1982 to 1992, rank of major; The
Apple House Inc., 1982 to present; co-owner of family business.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
As it is currently proposed, and being built, I do not support
the Center City project. The objections raised by opponents of
this project have seemed to be with the details of the building
(i.e., access widths, subsidized vs. standard rent apartments,
etc.).
My objection lies within the larger question of "what is
the proper scope and responsibility of our city government?"
Is it to build apartments and rental space in the name of revitalization?
I disagree. I feel the city government should concentrate on delivering
those services required by the residents of the city in the most
cost-effective manner possible. Editor's note: Cummins exceeded
the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I was born and
raised in Terre Haute. Like many long-time city residents, I went
downtown often as I grew up. Despite any sentimental attachments
I or anyone may have for downtown, I do not see sentimentality
as a reason to invest millions of taxpayer dollars into this area.
As much as anyone, I would like to see our downtown be an attractive,
interesting, vibrant part of Terre Haute. I would also like to
see Twelve Points, Central Eastside and other traditional commercial
areas brought along in any efforts. Any push toward redevelopment
should be a private-sector initiative with city government support
and cooperation.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I don't see one major problem
facing the city of Terre Haute. I do see the same basic problems
that other cities in Indiana are now facing. Among those are maintaining
economic development, maintaining the services needed by city
residents, maintaining and improving the quality of life in our
city and doing it within tighter and tighter budgets. As a city
councilman, I would make it a point to meet with each city department
head to inform myself on what each area is trying to accomplish.
Armed with that knowledge and my experience, I think I can be
part of many new solutions to these problems.
Name: Franklin V. Fennell II
Address: 112 Gardendale Road, Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 877-0184
Date of birth: Aug. 3, 1968
Education: 1986 graduate of Terre Haute North Vigo High School;
graduate of Storekeeper "A" School, Meridian, Miss.;
graduate of Leadership Terre Haute.
Work/professional history: Navy veteran, 1986 to 1990; finance
company manager, American General Finance, 1990 to 1994; banking
center manager , Merchants National Bank, 1994 to 1996; security
director, Merchants National Bank, 1996 to present; former treasurer,
Partners for Growth & Jobs; former board member, Crime Stoppers.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do not support the Center City project. It is my belief that
it is not in the best interest of the taxpayers to have their
money used for an investment venture. At this time, we do not
know what the future holds for downtown Terre Haute. The local
government has yet to prove that revitalizing the downtown area
can be accomplished or has a legitimate chance to succeed. It
is important for the local government to provide a plan for a
revitalized downtown but this plan must address the whole downtown
area and not just individual projects.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I believe the
city needs to support and initiate efforts on redeveloping downtown,
but we should never waste taxpayer dollars. If downtown is not
a profitable place for business, then we should re-evaluate our
efforts. I believe the success of downtown will be a direct result
of the success and expansion of Indiana State University.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? The most important problem
facing the city of Terre Haute is innovation. We must use the
resources surrounding our great city (Rose-Hulman, Indiana State
University, Ivy Tech, Indiana Business College). We currently
have viable local companies (AET, Bemis, Ivy Hill, DADC) to support
and assist in future expansion. If we want to attract future companies
to locate in this area, we must continue to use our resources
and support the Vigo County School Corp. in producing young men
and women that can support the work force for future generations.
Terre Haute
City Council, District 3

Democrat
Name: Harry J. Eversole
Address: 3841 N. 25th St., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 466-4667
Date of birth: Jan. 22, 1959
Education: 1977 graduate of Terre Haute North Vigo High School
and attended Ivy Tech State College.
Work/professional history: Co-owner and operator of Harry's Performance
Center (H&E Automotive Inc.), a business that sells retail
automotive parts, truck accessories and high-performance auto
parts. I began the business in 1986 at my home. I moved the business
to a location on North 25th Street in 1989; in 1990 I built my
current building at 3014 N. 25th St. I have expanded the building
twice, in 1994 and the final phase in 1998. I firmly believe that
my business experience will be beneficial to our city government
and the taxpayers of Terre Haute.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
The question of whether or not to build the Center City project
is behind us. The contracts have been awarded and the work has
begun. It is now time for the entire community to join forces
and support the project. There have been lessons learned by all
concerned parties. The Center City project is providing valuable
construction jobs and eventually retail space that will add jobs
to our local area. These new retail stores will boost our economy.
Only time will tell what the impact of the center will be; we
should not expect the center to be a money maker for the city
in the first year. Editor's Note: Eversole exceeded the 100-word
limit set by the Tribune-Star.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I do believe
efforts should be on the redevelopment of downtown. It will never
be the retail center of years ago; the malls in town will always
be larger and draw more people. Downtown should become our professional
and cultural center of Terre Haute. We need to attract not only
new business to our area, but also the people to work these new
positions. Seventh Street is becoming an arts and cultural area
with the Swope Art Gallery renovation, the historical Indiana
Theater and ISU's Fine Arts Building. These are areas that people
from other cities want in a city ... Editor's note: Eversole exceeded
the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? We need to "trim some
of the fat" out of the city government. One way this can
be accomplished is by unifying some of the city and county offices.
The weights and measures, and the emergency dispatch services
departments are two examples of duplicated offices. Both offices
could be combined to run more efficiently. This would save taxpayers
dollars. Road maintenance, salaries, benefits for city employees,
equipment needed for all city departments, and improvements in
our parks are some examples of how the extra money could be appropriated.
As your 3rd District city councilman, I will work and support
projects like this, for you, the taxpayers of Terre Haute.
Name: Paul W. Jones
Address: 1820 N. 27th St., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 232-4742
Date of birth: Oct. 3, 1925
Education: I never went to high school. I quit school at age 16,
during the Depression years. I was 18 in October 1943, was drafted
in December 1943. At age 19 I was in France with the 71st Division.
This was around February 1945.
Work/professional history: After World War II jobs were scarce.
I worked with my stepfather in his own appliance shop. Then I
worked with Jensen for 21 years. My last job was with Montgomery
Ward for 14 years; and I was self-employed after they closed.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Why doesn't the Hulman Foundation fix up the Terre Haute House?
First, I would want the people that put me in office to tell me
what they wanted. If they wanted "no," then that is
the way I would vote.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Again, why did
every big company move away from downtown? No place to park. People
do not care to walk a mile or put money in a meter for 1 or 2
hours. In time, I see the college taking over our city. Myself,
again, I would vote what the people of District 3 want. They will
be my voice, I will be a go-between.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? When Mayor Chalos was in
office, the city picked up your tree limbs in front of your house.
Now we must put them in bundles and let the trash men take them.
Our alleys should be grated and graveled and tree limbs in our
alley should be taken care of.

Name: Norm Loudermilk
Address: 1926 Berne Ave., Terre Haute, 47805
Phone: (812) 466-4926
Date of birth: Jan. 13, 1965
Education: Terre Haute North Vigo High School, 1983; Indiana State
University, 1987.
Work/professional history: Terre Haute Police Department, 1987
to 1999; Farmers Insurance Group, 1999; Anderson & Nichols
Law Offices, investigator, 1995 to present; city councilman, 3rd
District, 1996 to present; United States Marine Corps, 1982 to
1987; Indiana Army National Guard, 1987 to 1996.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do not support a project that the citizens are against. We as
elected officials should vote the "will of the people"
and not for the interest of a select few. This project has many
code violations and, in my opinion, is not the answer to downtown's
problem.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Yes, but we
should do so seeking tax credits, not using tax money. I believe
that there are other areas of concern. What about the north end?
With everything headed south, let us not forget those that live
north of Wabash Avenue as well. Let us concentrate on redeveloping
and promoting all of Terre Haute and not just downtown.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? A deterioration of city services.
In 1996 there were 124 police, now there are 113. In 1996 there
were 156 firefighters, now there are 129. Also, the bus service
has laid employees off. We need to give the community good services
and use tax dollars wisely. Combine city and county positions
to save money and to streamline services. Eliminate excess positions
within each department and combine job classifications, utilizing
the money saved for community projects.
Terre Haute
City Council, District 4

Democrat
Name: Mick Love
Address: 1101 S. Fifth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-1036
Date of birth: Sept. 17, 1948
Education: Attended Wiley High School; U.S. Army, 1965 to 1968,
honorable discharge; GED, 1969; graduated Ivy Tech, 1971.
Work/Professional history: I've been a member of Local 157 Plumbers/Fitters,
Local 75 Cement Masons and Local 204 Laborers. I've served as
president of the Wabash Valley Central Labor Council, and as a
member of the board of directors for the United Way of the Wabash
Valley. I am a member of the Eugene V. Debs Foundation. I currently
work at the Bemis Co. Inc., where I have been for nearly 14 years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Support. As a candidate for public office I am committed to making
our community a better place to live and work. It will be the
next city council's responsibility to make it work. However, the
entire concept needs to be put under a fine microscope so the
taxpayers don't feel left out. Perhaps better communications would
help. We must find a way to work in harmony if we expect to prosper
and grow. The downtown district should grow and then I support
that.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Yes. The downtown
area was considered the Crossroads of America at one time. There
is a lot of history there, and room to make more history. I just
hope I get the opportunity to be a part of all that. We must also
maintain what we already have, so let's not forget about the rest
of the city. I've seen some rundown neighborhoods and I would
like to clean them up.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Good paying jobs are my main
item of concern. I would use the Internet to locate fresh new
enterprises and contact them with a well thought out plan designed
to sell our city and keep our youth here and our families together.

Name: Henry Olgus
Address: 505 Swan St., Terre Haute, 47807
Phone: (812) 235-2317
Education: attended Crawford School, Sarah Scott and Wiley High
School. Also, apprenticeship programs and various types of job
training plus military service, two years, U.S. Army, and lifetime
member of Terre Haute Bible Center.
Work/professional history: My work experience included six years
of apprenticeship with the Tribune-Star before becoming a journeyman
mailer until retirement in 1997. I have served several years as
a mailing and distribution department foreman and am a past president
of Local 76 of the ITU. Currently, I am the president of Indianapolis
Mainers M-10 of the Communication Workers Association which consists
of Terre Haute, Muncie and Indianapolis.
I also frequently worked several jobs at the U.S. Post Office
and GTE; served 13 years as a member of the Terre Haute Police
Merit Board; member of the Teamsters Local of Indianapolis.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do not support the Center City project as planned and directed.
Downtown construction should be geared to business or office type
uses rather than uncertain residential apartments. Such "anchor
tenants" should be determined and projects engineered according
to real economies and local needs. This planning should come before
construction and commitment of such massive tax funds.
While the city should play a role in downtown development, it
should not carry the entire burden. Center City is not the right
project at the right time and I believe the actual short-term
benefits will be outweighed by future long-term expense. Editor's
note: Olgus exceeded the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Redeveloping
downtown is clearly needed, as well as the rest of the city. However,
the project should start with existing vacant downtown buildings.
The upper levels should be developed to bring private sector tenants
in and the lower levels will have appropriate businesses naturally
follow. With proper limited government participation, state and
federal grants can be directed toward these projects and assurances
had that safety and handicap guidelines are followed.
This is a more appropriate use of TIF Tax raised funds. No new
government built apartments should be contemplated until Terre
Haute's historic downtown buildings are saved or utilized. Editor's
note: Olgus exceeded the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Realistically, there are
several important problems facing the city. The city has a nearly
$30 million budget and I feel the public is not receiving the
services that they pay for and should have a right to expect.
I'm in the 4th District and it ranks with some of the older and
most forgotten in the city. Alleys, sidewalks, and road repair/snow
removal is not of the standard that our taxes are paying for.
Permanent residents feel ignored and closed-out from city government.
As a councilman for the 4th District, I feel a greater voice should
be had for the public ... Editor's note: Olgus exceeded the 100-word
limit set by the Tribune-Star.

Name: David J. Roberts
Address: 1645 S. Fifth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 234-3231
Date of birth: Oct. 29, 1966
Education: Terre Haute North Vigo High School, 1985; St. Vincent
Hospital, Indianapolis, graduated paramedic, 1988; attended Indiana
State University; Leadership Terre Haute Class XIX.
Work/professional history: self-employed consultant; city of Terre
Haute, administrative assistant to the mayor; Vigo County Sheriff's
Department, communications supervisor/IDACS coordinator; Union
Hospital's Paramedic Program, field preceptor; Aid Ambulance at
Vigo County (Rural Metro), paramedic and EMT dispatcher; board
member, vice-president, St. Mark United Church of Christ; board
of directors, United Cerebral Palsy, appointed 1996; board of
overseers, Sheldon Swope Art Museum, appointed 1996; board of
directors, Urban Enterprise Association, appointed 1996; United
Way of the Wabash Valley Fundraising Campaign, government chair,
1996-1997; board of directors, Christmas in April; member, Wabash
Valley Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I support the city administration's plan for the Center City project.
I do have concerns about a public entity competing with private
enterprise. I feel, however, the government should step in and
act as a catalyst for improvement when the private sector does
not or cannot. People living, working and shopping downtown -
that is the goal of this project and others such as the Urban
Enterprise Zone's highly successful Downtown Housing Loan Program,
which has created residential space out of vacant upper floors
in downtown buildings.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. The revitalization
of downtown needs to be an ongoing project. Support for efforts
such as maintaining a downtown postal facility and improving infrastructure
needed to support private investment should be a primary goal
of the city council and city administration. Private investment
by business owners and organizations should be encouraged and
supported by city government whenever possible. The renovation
of the historic Bell Building by United Cerebral Palsy is an example
of private organization and public support enabling a long-vacant
building to be reused. These types of efforts are what I'd like
to encourage as a city councilman.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I could talk about taxes,
crime, the fire department, etc., but Terre Haute's most pressing,
all-encompassing problem in my eyes is lack of civic pride. Terre
Haute has so many things to offer. Our city park system, arts
community, colleges and universities and location are examples
of Terre Haute's positives. I have lived in Terre Haute for over
28 years, met and married my wife and am raising my children here.
I want them to be proud to call Terre Haute home. I would work
to make community pride something that is constantly celebrated.
Name: Donald E. "Don" Wilson
Address: 1454 S. Center St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-2159
Date of birth: Jan. 25, 1952
Education: Coal Creek High School, near Crawfordsville, 1970.
Work/professional history: I currently work for TRW Inc. in the
Marshall, Ill., plant as a line technician. Before TRW, I was
the Terre Haute Depot manager for Alco Health Services, a wholesale
company based in Paducah, Ky.
I am a member of the Terre Haute Noon Optimist Club since 1986,
having served as club secretary. I am also a member of the Southside
Democrat Club, having served as president for the past five years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Terre Haute needs a strong downtown. The biggest fear I have is
that the current Center City project could pour all of the available
funds into that one building and leave the rest of downtown stagnant.
The total costs for this project are not fully known and my biggest
fear is that they are being understated to sell it to the public.
The reason the Terre Haute House project has yet to happen is
the operating costs and debt service requirements would have made
it necessary to have nearly 100 percent occupancy every day of
the year. That is just not a realistic possibility. Editor's note:
Wilson exceeded the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Downtown is
the link that holds this city together. Downtown redevelopment
should be encouraged. The key is getting many private companies
and individuals the incentives to build and improve what is already
there. Low-cost loans to businesses who build or improve would
stimulate interest. If there is a special project that needs built,
then offer direct grants just for that project. This kind of help
would make it easier for a business to be profitable and stay
in operation and build the kind of downtown that brings people
in to live and work. This would also limit the city's risk in
these ventures. Editor's note: Wilson exceeded the 100-word limit
set by the Tribune-Star.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Our police and fire departments
need to be upgraded in equipment, training and in salaries. As
an example, representatives of the police union found that Terre
Haute's officers receive $3,700 less per year than the average
salary for police officers across Indiana. This average was not
just Indianapolis or Indiana's biggest cities, either. Currently,
fines for traffic violations almost entirely go to the state.
A $75 fine leaves only $3 in the county treasury; $72 goes to
Indianapolis to the state treasury. If the city would write mirroring
ordinances the public would still be served but most of the money
would stay in this city. Editor's note: Wilson exceeded the 100-word
limit set by the Tribune-Star.
Terre Haute
City Council, District 5
Democrat
Name: Cynthia Brown
Address: 1910 Garfield Ave., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 238-2361
Education: Did not respond
Work/professional history: Did not respond
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Center City is the wrong project, unfairly competes with private
business and only provides additional tax-subsidized space to
fill on Wabash Avenue.
Existing buildings should be developed first; Terre Haute House
renovation, only if economically viable - not tax dollar startable
- second. Center City land could then be realistically used to
complement what was then needed: parking or sold for private development,
etc.
Helping the private sector should replace government projects
by boards or commissions who do not answer to the public while
being able to spend millions of our tax dollars. The city shouldn't
be a landlord.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Many city areas
need development and renovation, not just the downtown. Downtown
work should only be concentrated on existing buildings, providing
the same money in wages, available store and apartment space while
stopping the Redevelopment Department's expensive policy of paying
for demolition in order to sit on a parcel of land and mow the
weeds for years after taking it off the tax rolls.
Many neighborhoods don't have sidewalks or gutters. Snow removal,
police and fire protection is reflected in closed fire stations.
District council members are responsible to stop wasteful spending
for political projects and get the city back to providing services.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? No one problem outweighs
the burden of the many. Wasteful spending, special interest pandering,
ignoring public will, conflicts of interest and abuse of position
by officials, contribute to public apathy and despair.
A take-home vehicle policy, better management to reduce waste
and political paybacks, fair contracting practices, conflict of
interest reporting and open government should combine with cooperation
to achieve better jobs, good services and a city centered around
the people again. People can't help themselves if they are overtaxed,
overregulated and shut out. All parts of government should answer
to the people.
Name: Al Hamblen
Address: 1113 Maple Ave., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 238-9752
Date of birth: Nov. 29, 1944
Education: State High School, 1962; Indiana State University,
criminology major and business administration minor.
Work/professional history: I served four years in the United States
Marine Corps, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. I am retired
from the United States Penitentiary after a 26-year career. During
my career I was a correctional officer, case manager and counselor.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
The Center City project is a moot point and beyond debate. I hope
for its success. If Center City was a new proposal, I would object.
The government should not compete with the private sector, and
this project is a clear violation of that concept. My district
councilman has stated "... anyone who objects to Center City
is against the working man." Clearly an irrational statement.
The working men and women, including those employed on this project,
if local labor is used, will be paying for this project long after
those paychecks are spent.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. The redevelopment
of old downtown should be left to private investors, but city
officials can contribute by offering reasonable incentives for
projects that benefit the community. Downtown has moved a few
miles south and it's doubtful people will return to Wabash Avenue
to shop. It has long been my belief that old downtown will eventually
become a part of the Indiana State University campus, and perhaps
that time is near.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? "A few people settled
in Terre Haute, but the founding fathers were not satisfied, and
they began to advertise in eastern newspapers to attract settlers,
particularly craftsmen and mechanics. Terre Haute needed to promote
industry and a larger tax base." This quote described Terre
Haute in 1818. Terre Haute now has the craftsmen and mechanics,
but in large numbers they are moving to find jobs they deserve.
Lack of jobs with good pay and benefits is the most pressing local
problem. As a city councilman I will seek industry that offers
our youth a future in Terre Haute.

Name: Paul H. Schoffstall Jr.
Address: 1154 Lafayette Ave., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 235-6752
Date of birth: Jan. 24, 1943
Education: Garfield and Gerstmeyer high schools; obtained GED
in later years.
Work/professional history: I was a field investigator for the
Harrison Township Trustee's Office for seven years. I was elected
to the Harrison Township Advisory Board for two terms. I served
as president of that board as well as secretary and member during
the eight years. I was also owner-operator of my own business
for many years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I do support the Center City project because I have a firm belief
that if you build for today, then others will build for tomorrow.
Thus, more growth for downtown Terre Haute and a more promising
future for our children.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Definitely,
our city should further efforts to redevelop downtown Terre Haute
because our college students and senior citizens who live close
to downtown need more facilities to accommodate their needs. Sure,
they can take the city bus to shopping areas, etc., but perhaps
they are too short of time or not healthy enough for long jaunts.
College students contribute a great deal to Terre Haute's economy
and I feel that they are too often forgotten.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Terre Haute's biggest problem
is our youth. There are very few places our teen-agers can go.
The places we have - movie theaters, bowling alleys and skating
rinks - are unaffordable for some teens. What's left but to park
or cruise on Wabash Avenue? On occasion this has lead to trouble.
As a city council member I would help our teens become responsible
adults by starting, perhaps, a rotating "junior" city
council. Our teen-agers could voice their opinions. If you listen,
really listen, you will be pleasantly surprised by some of their
ideas. Keep in mind that these young adults are our future.

Name: Charles A. "Charlie" Toth
Address: 2108 N. 10th St., Terre Haute, 47804
Phone: (812) 232-7558
Date of birth: June 6, 1947
Education: attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, Deming School
and McLean Junior High School; graduated Gerstmeyer High School
and Indiana State University.
Work/professional history: Construction laborer, Laborer's Local
204, labor foreman, general labor foreman, union steward, field
representative and business manager, 1974 to 1999.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
The Center City project is a step to the future for the downtown
area. Not only have we utilized a vacant lot, we have provided
good paying jobs with benefits for our citizens and taxpayers.
We have also chosen a local contractor to perform the work.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Yes, the downtown
area can again be something to be proud of. I don't believe it
will ever be as large a retail center as it was in the past, but
there is much room for improvement. I believe the Terre Haute
House can and should be renovated to complement the Center City
project.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Division is the greatest
problem in the city of Terre Haute. Democrats vs. Republicans,
Democrats vs. Democrats. People going for their own agendas instead
of working for the greater good of people who live and work in
Terre Haute. I believe the best way to combat this problem is
to continue to have discussion and try to include everybody in
the decision making. People may not always agree but communication
is the answer.
Candidate Richetta Jo Hale did not return the questionnaire.
Terre Haute
City Council, at-large

Democrat
Name: George Alsop
Address: 820 Grant St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-8615
Date of birth: Nov. 8, 1926
Education: Gerstmeyer Technical High School, 1944
Work/professional history: Although I am retired from a job, I
am not retired from work. I have had several years experience
in city government and have the time to devote that experience
to the benefit of Terre Haute's citizenry.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Work first started concerning downtown redevelopment in 1996.
It was at that time that the council and other interested citizens
should have been more involved. Being appointed to the council
in 1998, I supported the resolution asking for a review of the
project. Now that the project has started, for the sake of the
city, I will support completion. Unfortunately, the merits of
the project itself have been overshadowed by its merits as a political
issue, and its positive factors, such as the number of union jobs
created for many local workers, have been underplayed.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Yes - but it's
only one of several areas to be considered. The council must be
involved in developing an overall plan and not just some vested
agenda. Financing downtown development must include private enterprise,
grants, and donations. Considering such development, again I say
the taxpayer will remain central to my consideration and other
areas of the city must not be sacrificed.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I believe the most important
problem facing the city is maintaining the high level of services
which have been provided the citizens in the past. The city is
under an obligation to provide services to the newly annexed areas;
at the same time, services should not be reduced to the older
sections of the city. Maintaining the level of services may involve
additional manpower and equipment, or the relocation of response
units. My experience, knowledge and know-how in city government
is what I have to offer to solve this problem.

Name: George Azar
Address: 40 W. Lawrin Blvd., Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 877-3780
Date of birth: Dec. 3,. 1946
Education: State High School, 1964; attended Indiana State University,
1964-1966; U.S. Air Force, 1966-1970; Returned to ISU in 1974
and graduate with a bachelor's degree in elementary education
in 1976.
Work/professional history: Co-owner of the Saratoga Restaurant
and Azar's Catering Service, with wife, Cathy, since 1977.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
As a downtown businessperson, I have always believed that the
downtown would become a business/financial and residential area.
I would have preferred private investment for the vacant lot now
housing the Center City project. However, since construction is
now under way, I feel that the question of support or non-support
of the project is a moot one. Obviously, the project is going
to happen no matter what side of the fence we were on. Therefore
I think the question should be: "How can we, as concerned
citizens, insure the project's success now that it is a reality?"
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? It is imperative that the city continues
to concentrate efforts on redeveloping the downtown area. When
I visit another city I make a point of visiting the downtown area.
If I see the downtown is progressive and attractive, then my impression
of that city starts on a positive note. I strongly feel that the
downtown is a "gateway" to the rest of the city. If
that "gateway" is alive and vibrant then the rest of
the city will ultimately benefit as well.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? After reading your question,
my committee conducted an unofficial survey asking this same question.
The answer: streets. This was the number one concern of those
surveyed. How do we solve this problem? By continually concentrating
efforts to improve city services and provide the necessary funding
whenever possible. We need to make sure that when the snow falls,
it is removed. When the sewers flood, they are cleared. When the
potholes appear, they are repaired. This can only be done through
a concentrated, cooperative effort by the city administration,
city council, and the heads of each major department.

Name: Richard F. Dunkin
Address: 2416 S. Eighth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-9113
Date of birth: No response
Education: I graduated Terre Haute South Vigo High School in 1989.
I went on to earn a bachelor's degree in political science from
Indiana State University. Since graduating from ISU I have achieved
the professional designation of accredited adviser in insurance;
and I am currently working toward the degree of chartered property
and casualty underwriter.
Work/professional history: I am employed locally by Howard Clare
Insurance Agency, a family owned and operated independent insurance
agency. I am a member of the Independent Insurance Agents of America
and Young Agents Committee. I am also a member and currently serving
on the board of directors of Central Eastside Merchants Association.
I am a Junior Achievement volunteer, and presently teach a fifth-grade
class at Lost Creek Elementary School. As I see it, insurance
lends itself to politics. On a daily basis I represent hundreds
of clients, looking after their best interests, and insuring their
financial security.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I understand the plight of the downtown businessman and I do support
the efforts to redevelop downtown, However, I did not agree with
the building of the Center City project. There is no way this
project will ever stand on its own financial legs - get ready,
taxpayers. Whether or not one supports the project, it is unacceptable
that it was forced through after the city council voted it down
six to three. If this is the strength of our current city council,
why have one? I agree with Mr. Mike Ellis - now that it's here,
let's rally behind it.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Absolutely,
I think every great city should work to polish their blighted
areas. Do I think Terre Haute should go broke trying to re-create
the downtown of yesteryear? No, I feel sometimes it is better
to accept reality. Since the creation of Interstate 70 we have
all watched commerce flow from the old Crossroads of America to
the new. Let's concentrate our efforts on reviving some of the
old vacant structures and not building new ones. Let's accept
downtown for the thriving and vital daily 9-to-5 business district
that it is.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? I feel the largest problem
facing our city today is the inability of various divisions of
city government to work together. I think our current administration
needs a disclaimer that reads: "Does Not Play Well With Others."
We also need more heightened sense of public awareness. When I
am elected to the city council, I will press for a more united
city government, one that is responsive to the people. Issues
that remain unsettled must find closure, biases must be set aside,
contract negotiations must be civil. Democracy, above all else,
must prevail. United we stand, divided we fall!

Name: Karin LaFrance Kennedy
Address: 2129 College Ave., Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 238-3748
Date of birth: April 5, 1970
Education: Terre Haute South Vigo High School, 1988; bachelor
of science in marketing, Indiana State University, 1992; master
of science in sociology, Indiana State University, 1994.
Work/professional history: Media sales representative, J.B. Cable
Ads, 1992-1993; director of marketing and community relations,
Southwood Health & Rehabilitation Center, 1994-1995; director
of marketing, Terre Haute Regional Hospital, 1995 to present;
Wabash Valley Race for the Cure, executive committee; Leadership
Terre Haute, Class XXI; Tri-Kappa; American Marketing Association,
board member; Wabash Valley Marketing Health Care Group; Wabash
Valley Optimist Club; Vigo County Breast and Cervical Cancer Coalition;
Vigo County Immunization Coalition; P.A.T.C.H. (Planned Approach
to Community Health); Meals on Wheels, board member.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I am opposed to using citizens' tax dollars to fund a project
that has been called, "a monument to waste." There seems
to be an unwillingness by the current administration to discuss
the true costs of the project and its weaknesses. We now have
a nearly $7 million hole in the ground! This project is an inappropriate
use of tax dollars. Your tax dollars should be used for infrastructure,
new business development and public services. If completed, Center
City could continue to drain our tax base by reportedly $400,000
per year.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I would strive
to support and redevelop downtown Terre Haute. However, the city's
role would be to use our limited tax dollars for the necessary
infrastructure that will assist private development and renovation
of downtown Terre Haute and its most famous landmark, the Terre
Haute House. It should become a mixed-use development containing
senior housing, meeting rooms and banquet facilities. This project
would qualify for numerous tax credits and would certainly be
more economically feasible than the publicly funded Center City
project.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? As a professional businesswoman,
I will bring my knowledge of budgeting, resource management and
results-driven business practices to our city council. The efficient
use of the city's current revenue is needed to deliver effective
services to its owners, the taxpayers. Any new expenditures that
require funding must be reviewed wisely and prudently. When additional
dollars are needed to fund a project we must be more creative
in funding that project. As your councilperson, I would also consider
the consolidation of redundant services offered by the city and
county. The current "Tax and Spend" philosophy cannot
continue.

Name: Cliff Lambert
Address: 120 McKinley, Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 235-2458
Date of birth: Nov. 1, 1941
Education: Garfield High School, 1960; Indiana State University
bachelor's degree, 1970; Indiana State University master's degree,
1971; Indiana University post graduate work; Harvard University
Graduate School of Design, course work in city planning and urban
development.
Work/professional history: Hulman & Co. Wholesale Grocers;
Penn Central Railroad; U.S. Air Force; Actor's Theatre of Louisville;
Indiana State University, instructor, speech department; Indiana
State University, assistant director for Alumni Affairs; St. Mary-of-the-Woods
College, instructor, theater department; St. Mary-of-the-Woods
College, director, Women's External Degree Program; Indiana State
University, director Hulman Center/Tilson Auditorium facilities.
Elected offices: Vigo County Council, four years; City Council
of Terre Haute (by caucus) December 1998 to present. Citizen volunteer
work: Indiana Arts Commissioner, eight years; Redevelopment Commissioner,
20 years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
Project will create $13 million positive economic spin-off for
community's business/employees. Project being built by local union
contractor/subcontractors with construction workers earning prevailing
wages which are amongst best Indiana. Downtown physical and economic
void will be replaced by new high-quality building with superior
architecture. Housing component will introduce more people into
downtown on a 24-hour basis and begin creating market for goods
and service within developing downtown "neighborhood."
Commercial office/business component will provide new functional
efficient space downtown attracting new businesses and retaining
businesses desiring to remain in downtown.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Downtown is
face/image of Terre Haute retained by citizens and visitors. Downtown
should be improved to enhance image for our citizens' pride/self-respect
and to create desire on part of visitors to relocate in our community,
revitalizing/enhancing our economic base. Downtown is most important
visible neighbor to Indiana State University. The quality of downtown
impacts ISU whose employees and students add significantly to
community's economic well-being. Investing dollars in downtown
restoration, rehabilitation, and construction means more jobs
and significant economic benefit to our community.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? The city's element of the
Comprehensive Plan should be updated incorporating plans/city
services for newly annexed areas of city. City council should
request Area Planning Commission to update plan. City's codes
for building safety/neighborhood cleanliness should be reviewed
and if found sufficient then be strongly enforced improving safety
of citizens and improvement in appearance of city. The problem
of how to create opportunities for good-paying jobs in community
can be resolved through city's continued support for development
of Vigo County Industrial Park as city has done with Fort Harrison
Industrial Park/Industrial Corridor.
Name: Samuel J. "Sam" Mail
Address: 2928 S. Sixth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-2522
Date of birth: March 20, 1953
Education: Terre Haute South Vigo High School, 1972; attended
Indiana State University; attending the Joyce Cook School of Real
Estate.
Work/Professional history: Vigo County Sheriff's Department; Vigo
County Public Defender's Office; sales and sales management.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
The Center City project is being built like it or not. Something
downtown that meets with the approval of area merchants and business
is long overdue. It was a shame private individuals and private
monies couldn't get something done. While city government waited
some 25 years, private enterprise did little. It was obvious that
city government couldn't wait any longer for a vibrant downtown
of some sort to get started. Thank heavens the Center City project
is under way. Twenty years from now the Center City project will
be looked upon as the catalyst that once again made downtown a
place Terre Haute and Vigo County would be proud of.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. Concentrate
no - should the city work with redevelopment, work with area leaders,
work with area business, work with the university and work with
local labor? Absolutely! The city government would be doing the
public a disservice if it didn't. The whole idea is to serve the
public. The redevelopment of downtown is vital to the community
as a whole.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Brain drain. Not being able
to keep the best and the brightest from moving out of the city
and the area. The old saying "we've done it his way for forty
years" doesn't work any longer. To attract new businesses
and the well-paying jobs it brings, we have to show new businesses
that we are the best and the brightest. That we have the ability
to adapt and change with the times. The time is fresh with the
turn of the century and the new millennium, to bring those businesses
and the good jobs to the city of Terre Haute. Editor's note: Mail
exceeded the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
Name: Jerry Leslie Smith
Address: 1849 S. Third St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 232-4989
Date of birth: Aug. 7, 1947
Education: Gerstmeyer High School, 1965; Indiana State University,
B.S., 1971.
Work/professional history: While attending Indiana State University,
I worked as a laborer on road construction, truck driver, produce
stocker and service station attendant. After graduation from ISU,
I managed Terre Haute Oil Corp. for 20 years. I currently own
and operate Louise's Restaurant, which has been serving Terre
Haute for 60 years.
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
City government has decided to build Center City. Therefore, the
community needs to support the project, but not subsidized with
tax dollars. Tax dollars should be invested in salaries and equipment
for all city departments. I would have attempted to move the Community
Theatre to Center City, which would bring people downtown.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I believe the
city must continue the development of downtown, but not concentrate
on it. If elected, I will pursue the purchase of the Federal Building,
move City Hall there, and then the county could use City Hall
for their expansion needs. I would also work to bring new industry
for better paying jobs, request elected officials attach their
name to any tax dollars spent outside the budget, and diligently
work to keep our community clean and safe. This makes for a happy
and attractive community.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? Terre Haute is a great place
to live and it can be made even better with proper management
of our revenues. This does not mean increasing taxes. We must
learn to operate within our budget while making sound business
decisions. The allocation of tax dollars is 75 percent of all
cities' problems. As a city council member I would work closely
with the mayor's office to ensure all departments, including the
Redevelopment Commission, are spending tax dollars properly.
Name: William F. (Bill) Thompson
Address: 219 Adams Blvd., Terre Haute, Ind., 47803
Phone: (812) 235-5205; (217) 581-2719 (Eastern Illinois University)
(work)
Date of birth: No response
Education: No response
Work/professional history: Teacher
1. Explain why you support or do not support the Center City project.
I am totally opposed to the Center City project. It is a waste
of the working peoples' taxes and is simply and unequivocally
poor public policy.
2. Do you believe the city should concentrate further efforts
on redeveloping downtown? Explain why or why not. I have supported
private enterprise in the downtown area. This creates and stimulates
employment and taxes and provides a positive environment for the
city of Terre Haute.
3. What is the most important problem facing the city of Terre
Haute, and as a member of the city council, what actions would
you take to help solve that problem? The primary responsibility
to the people is the core service of firefighters and policemen.
We must provide the people with the best fire and police personnel
and equipment and create a positive attitude from the mayor and
city councilpersons. This service is without exception the most
important service to the hard-working people I am privileged to
represent.
Terre Haute city clerk

Democrat
Name: Michael P. "Mike" Gleason
Address: 201 Crawford St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 237-3439, office; 237-7384, home
Date of birth: Sept. 6, 1942
Education: Bishop Noll High School in Hammond, 1960; Indiana State
University, 1966, bachelor's degree in sociology/psychology; Indiana
State University, 1998, master's degree in gerontology; numerous
federal government, military, industrial and professional organizations
schools, seminars and workshops.
Work/professional history: 25 years supervisory and management
experience in government, military and defense industry dealing
with intelligence, national security and defense systems procurement.
Ten years experience as a small business owner specializing in
public policy issues, gerontology research, tourism and leisure
marketing. Vietnam combat veteran. Adjunct professor at ISU.
1. How does your past work experience and education training make
you the best candidate for the elected position you seek? As required
by Indiana Code (36-4-10-4) the city clerk's duties are: serve
as clerk of the city legislative body, maintain all records, keep
the city seal, perform other duties prescribed by law, administer
oaths when necessary, and take depositions and acknowledgments
that are required by law. I have an extensive background in office
records administration, hands-on management, governmental procedures,
interdepartmental and intergovernmental relations, loss prevention,
efficiency working with limited budgets (taxpayers' money!), personnel
management, public interface and computer operations. The Y2K
problem needs attention as does open access to city records by
the public and news media.
2. What is the most important problem facing the holder of the
city office you seek, and if elected, what actions would you take
to correct that problem. Cronyism: Ethics gone amok in City Hall.
Citizens are concerned that all are not treated fairly. The three
most important ethical commands - do no harm, respect individual
rights and above all, be fair - have been violated by selective
practices by the 16-year incumbent. Public jobs belong to the
public, not to public officials. The clerk's office could and
should be an open door for information for all citizens - publish
a detailed monthly calendar, develop a user friendly Web site,
develop and distribute "A Citizens Guide To Your City Government"
explaining department functions, contacts and procedures for citizens
to get results.
Name: Charles P. Hanley
Address: 2625 S. Eighth St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 234-4656
Date of birth: Sept. 14, 1944
Education: Did not respond
Work/professional history: I have been a lifelong resident of
Terre Haute except for a few years I was serving in the military.
Presently serving as city clerk has given me hands-on experience
with the responsibilities and daily operations of this office.
The city clerk's office is primarily a records management office
for the city court and the city council. Since laws and governmental
regulations change rapidly every year, it is necessary to work
not only with local agencies but also with state and federal agencies
to make changes so local operation is in full compliance with
mandates that come down to us.
1. How does your past work experience and education training make
you the best candidate for the elected position you seek? As city
clerk, I have worked with former mayor, the Honorable P. Pete
Chalos, and his administrative staff, and I am currently working
with Mayor Jenkins and his staff. In my time as clerk there have
been many city council members come and go for a variety of reasons,
and I feel confident I have maintained a professional relationship
with all these people.
2. What is the most important problem facing the holder of the
city office you seek, and if elected, what actions would you take
to correct that problem. I implemented a computer system that
was completed in 1994, fully integrating all operations of this
office. My staff has been trained on this system, which has been
designed for rapid and easy modification as changes and needs
arise. The only problem is to maintain this system to reflect
these changes and needs and to ensure that program and hardware
design are as state-of-the-art as budget will allow. To deal with
this problem requires a continuing awareness of technological
development.
Terre Haute
City Court judge
Democrat
Name: David R. Bolk
Address: 2175 Ohio Blvd., Terre Haute, 47803
Phone: (812) 231-0017
Date of birth: July 24, 1963
Education: Terre Haute North Vigo High School, 1981; Indiana University,
bachelor's degree, English and criminal justice majors, 1985;
Indiana University, doctor of jurisprudence, 1988.
Work/professional history: Sacopulos Johnson & Hahn, 1988
to 1990, attorney; Terre Haute City Court Judge, 1991 to present;
Brattain & Nattkemper, 1992 to present, attorney.
1. How does your past work experience and education training make
you the best candidate for the elected position you seek? Having
graduated from law school, worked in the legal profession for
10 years and served as Terre Haute City Court Judge for eight
years, I am best qualified to serve as judge. Under Indiana Law,
the judge in City Court is not required to be an attorney. However,
on a daily basis the judge is asked to interpret criminal statutes,
rule on evidentiary questions and to apply the law. My opponent
is not an attorney and has no legal training. City Court handles
over 25,000 misdemeanors a year. In each one of those cases individuals
face jail time. To have a candidate ... Editor's note: Bolk exceeded
the 100-word limit set by the Tribune-Star.
2. What is the most important problem facing the holder of the
city office you seek, and if elected, what actions would you take
to correct that problem. Judicial candidates are prohibited from
stating how certain cases and issues likely to come before them
will be handled. It is important, however, that the judge in City
Court manage the caseload so that cases continue to proceed in
an expeditious manner, that decisions are rendered in a timely
manner and that all individuals before the court are treated fairly.
I believe that I have demonstrated such conduct during the past
eight years and would continue to do so if elected.
Name: Robert E. Hamilton
Address: 2715 S. First St., Terre Haute, 47802
Phone: (812) 235-4740
Date of birth: June 14, 1956
Education: State High School, 1975; Ivy Tech State College, two-year
degrees in small business, accounting and computer programming.
Work/professional history: I have 20 years management experience
in the food business. I have also owned and operated my own asphalt
company for several years.
1. How does your past work experience and education training make
you the best candidate for the elected position you seek? When
one works out in the public for as many years as I have, one learns
to assess another person very quickly. Therefore, I would say
that my experience in dealing with people and having to judge
their honesty qualifies me for seeking the office of city judge.
2. What is the most important problem facing the holder of the
city office you seek, and if elected, what actions would you take
to correct that problem. I would say that the main problem that
the city judge has today is lack of judgment in assault cases.
This could be due to poor investigation. I would, as city judge,
continue some cases pending further investigation. Perhaps this
would prevent some of the shootings and other violent acts caused
by too quick of judgments.