Editor, Times-Union: Retha Hicks is a proven 18-year Winona Lake leader. We collectively support Retha’s Winona Lake clerk-treasurer re-election based upon our experience when directly working with her as previous or current Winona Lake Town Council members. Retha has educated council members about complex town budgeting, which assists council in making crucial decisions that have long-term affect on the fiscal and social health of our community. We attest to Retha Hicks’ accurate accounting methods as we participated in rigorous and consistent Indiana State Board of Accounts reviews. Retha was applauded for her accounting capability. It is known that she is sought out for her knowledge, sharing professional expertise with a network of clerk-treasurers throughout the state. Not having Retha Hicks as the clerk-treasurer for the Town of Winona Lake would be a major loss for Winona Lake and impact other small towns in the state of Indiana as she is a leader and mentor in her profession. The past several years have been a challenging time for many communities, small and large, throughout our state. However, thanks to the fiscal leadership and discipline of Retha, Winona Lake has been insulated from any major cut-backs or extreme measures during these times. Retha’s leadership in the role of clerk-treasurer has allowed Winona Lake to continue investment in the town’s infrastructure supporting such areas as the Greenway, Parks Department and the Winona Lake Fire Department. Retha organizes the Winona Lake Art Commission that installs community sponsored sculpture along the Greenway. As you drive around Winona Lake, you will see countless examples of how Retha has positively impacted our community over the years. She has been a dependable fiscal leader for Winona Lake during the past 18 years. Retha cares more about helping people than the status or power of a position even in times of adversity. She sincerely cares for the people who live in Winona Lake. She cares about her work and town employees. She cares about every town member. As clerk-treasurer, Retha benefits each citizen and has the experience needed to keep Winona Lake fiscally balanced. With respect and best wishes to Retha Hicks on May 3 – and always, Jerry Clevenger, Winona Lake David Delp, Winona Lake Jim Lancaster, Winona Lake Joy Lohse, Winona Lake Rolly Ortega, Winona Lake via e-mail
