LWV questionnaire: Putnam County Auditor

With contested races in the Republican primary for Putnam County Commissioner District 3, three Putnam County Council At-Large seats, Putnam County Auditor and Putnam County Coroner, the Greencastle League of Women Voters recently asked the candidates for these six spots to respond to questions specific to the respective offices.

The two candidates for Putnam County Auditor were asked one question each. Their answers are printed below.

Responses from candidates in other contested races are also appearing on www.bannergraphic.com and in print editions of the Banner Graphic.

The 2020 primary election has been delayed to Tuesday, June 2 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Question

Please discuss your qualifications for this office and why you believe you are the best choice in this election? (150 words)

Kristina Alexander

Education: 1989 Graduate of South Putnam

Experience and Qualifications: Worked in the Auditor’s Office for 19 years (1993-2012). I have a proven record of expertise and leadership in this very office, from working my way from tax deputy to chief deputy and then elected two terms as auditor. Being term-limited, I went back to chief deputy after I served as auditor for eight years. I have also served two terms as 3rd District Commissioner.

Community Involvements: I have served on: Putnam County Comprehensive Emergency Management Terrorism Sub-Committee, Greencastle/Putnam County Economic Development Board, Operation Life Board, Courthouse Security, County Insurance Committee, Redevelopment Board, Republican Women’s Club, West Central Economic Development Board, Courthouse Centennial Committee and past member of the Delta Theta Tau Sorority.

Answer: This office has evolved dramatically from being a bookkeeper to a literal financial manager. I have a full understanding of the responsibilities after serving 19 years in this office, with a proven record of expertise at the job and serving the citizens. I have invaluable knowledge and experience of the inner workings of the office and how the local government operates. In 1997, the county had a zero operating balance (we should have enough money to pay county bills and payroll for six months), funds were not balanced, we had outdated computers/software, schools had not received part of their funding for years…there was much to change. However, with dedication, tenacity and good communication, I and my staff turned it around. During these unprecedented financial times, now more than ever, we need a leader who consistently puts the needs of our community above personal politics. I am that person.

Tina Sillery

Experience and Qualifications: I have worked in county government from 2008-2019. I was crossed trained in many aspects while working in both the Assessor’s Office and Auditor’s Office. And being the Clinton Township Trustee, I have gained experience in the budget process.

Community Involvements:I have three years experience as Committeemen for the Putnam County Republican Party. I am in my second year as Clinton Township Trustee. I am a business owner and have been involved in local businesses for several years.

Answer: I am a lifelong resident of Putnam County. I have four grown children and seven grandchildren. I enjoy opportunities to serve and help others in need. In 2019, I opened a small business in downtown Greencastle. If elected as auditor, my daughter will take over the day-to-day operations of the shop. Being service-oriented, I also started driving a school bus for Greencastle Schools in 2019. I truly love being a driver and would like to continue doing so. I currently serve as the Clinton Township Trustee. My experience with county government doesn’t stop at trustee. I started my career in county government in 2008 in the Assessor’s Office. In 2013, I was asked to work for the Auditor’s Office as the human resources and payroll deputy. I helped implement many new cost-effective changes, including a time clock system for county employees. I look forward to serving Putnam County as the next auditor.