Editor, Times-Union: In response to the shocking attack on District 22 Democratic Candidate David Kolbe by Rhonda Miller, I would like to point out a few facts. Throughout his long career in the private sector, the public sector as our prosecutor, and his work for various non-profits, candidate Kolbe has always worked within a budget to maximize value. For example, as president of the YMCA board, Mr. Kolbe oversaw the early stages of the new partnership with Parkview Hospital, which will improve the quality of life in the Warsaw community. Although, due to term limits, Mr. Kolbe is no longer the president of the board, he served at critical phases in the development process. For example, it was Mr. Kolbe who searched for the affordable property to build on, and he hired the architectural firm. The new million dollar capital improvement to the YMCA was financed completely through individual and corporate donations, without taking a single dime from the City of Warsaw or Kosciusko County. Mr. Kolbe understands the budget constraints facing the city and the county and worked tirelessly to raise the funds necessary to ensure the citizens of the greater Warsaw community have an affordable place to exercise and learn healthy living practices. The new Y will also serve as a safe after school environment for kids and a summer day camp. This will also decrease day care expenses for working parents. Let’s contrast Mr. Kolbe’s proven track record with that of his extremist opponent. The extremist nominee used his political connections to receive a contract with the Elkhart County clerk worth $7,500. The clerk, as well as the nominee, are currently under investigation as to why this website was necessary as the county’s IT department managed the website for free for four years before it was contracted out. Remember, it was just a few years ago that Elkhart County had the highest unemployment rate in the nation at over 30 percent. Blatant corruption is bleeding our state dry. We deserve a representative who has proven experience working within a budget to maintain Indiana’s fiscal integrity, and to ensure every dime of taxpayer money is spent to its maximum potential. Unfortunately, Mr. Kolbe’s opponent will go to Indianapolis to further enrich himself at the expense of you and me. This fall, be bold, Kolbe! Brian Smith Communications Director, Kolbe Campaign Warsaw, via email
