Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Editor, Times-Union:
I am the Wayne Township trustee. I am responding to Evan Carter’s message directed at our office regarding homelessness.
What the financial reports do not convey is that many more people come in to pick up applications and never return because they are unwilling to fill out the application and supply our office with the information REQUIRED by the government in order for us to pay out money for rent, utilities, and other needs. There are guidelines we must follow and are subject to audits by the State Board of Accounts. We make every attempt to help people and do pay when the requirements are met. There are also income guidelines that change from year to year and are recorded at the courthouse. Many individuals refuse to fill out the application or supply us with the required information. Money cannot be paid without a completed application and supporting documentation.
Regarding the monies paid to Fellowship Missions for the homeless population that already exists in this township, the Board and I feel that this is a good resource in the community for homeless individuals and is a better and safer choice than a night or two at a hotel, which does not solve the problem past that one or two nights. The shelter also can connect individuals with resources in the community for jobs and also provides food. The collaboration between the Mission and the Township came to existence at the urging of people in the community asking for the partnership.
Just because there is money in the account, does not mean we can pay any amount to anyone without proper documentation. We are accountable for taxpayer money and must follow the same guidelines as any township in the State of Indiana. Consequently, we are not responsible and have no bearing on the rising costs of rent in Wayne Township.
If anyone has questions regarding this process, simple research of township government laws is always available online and the county’s guidelines for assistance are available at the courthouse.
Jeanie Stackhouse
Wayne Township Trustee
Warsaw, via email
