Michigan Township board candidates emphasize homelessness, mental-health supports and local outreach

Four candidates for Michigan Township board used opening statements and a League‑screened Q&A to spotlight social services and fiscal oversight.

Susan Webster, seeking reelection, said the township acts as a local safety net and urged residents to attend posted budget hearings and review annual reports. "We're the last place for people to reach," Webster said, stressing adherence to Indiana code and the trustee office's role in assistance processes.

Dominic Yanke tied his candidacy to experience with affordable‑housing nonprofits and food security programs; he described his work with Tannehill Community Soup Kitchen and said stakeholder outreach would be central to his approach. Agnes Mere (Spear) said she has worked with Habitat for Humanity recruiting homebuyers and emphasized connecting residents with long‑term resources rather than short‑term relief. Melody Farmer, a medical‑field worker, identified homelessness and mental‑health needs as the township’s top challenges and urged collaborative solutions with health professionals.

On the budget and representation question, candidates said the township posts hearings and that greater public participation is needed; Webster encouraged residents to read budgets and annual reports and to contact trustee offices directly. For service improvements candidates proposed building partnerships with nonprofits and emergency‑management programs and improving communication so residents know how to access assistance.

The candidates’ closing statements reinforced themes of community service, experience and teamwork, and the League reminded viewers to consult vote411.org for candidate questionnaires and to attend early‑voting opportunities before the May 5 primary.