State Rep. Charlie Brown

It's official, Charlie Brown announces run for Lake County Council District 3

Contributed By:The 411 News

State Rep. Charlie Brown (D-Gary) issued the statement below regarding his future hopes for extending his public service experience:

“In recent times back at home, I have watched our Lake County Council with more and more alarm—especially when considering the “representation” in the council district that I live in: District 3, which includes parts of Gary, Merrillville, Schererville, and Lake Station.

“The seven council members from districts throughout Lake County are diverse, with varied backgrounds and abilities. Some of these members perform their duties very well.

“The residents of District 3 deserve to be represented by an individual who will take seriously the responsibilities of fiscal prudence and financial wisdom. I plan to bring to District 3 the same dedication to leadership and involvement that I have pursued as a member of the State Legislature.

“As a long-time member of this community, I share many of the hopes and dreams other residents have for Lake County’s Third District. I am excited about the prospect of giving my entire effort to fulfill the job responsibilities of the office I hope to hold.

“I have looked at the incumbent in Lake County Council District 3 and considered the whole of Lake County government. Having done so, I am now convinced that I can bring a special skill set to the Council and to the people of this council district—devoting all of my time and all of my energies to their concerns.

“I will not have to learn from scratch about the nuances of government finance after my 35 years in the Indiana House of Representatives dealing with (among other things) multi-billion-dollar statewide budgets. I am aware, of course, that many procedures and processes are different on a county fiscal body—but the required grasp of the subject has long since been in my resume while others apparently are trying to learn the basics.

“It is also appropriate to note that the experiences and reputation I gained in Indianapolis were as a ‘listener’ who could work with many different personalities and with individuals from both political parties. When compromise was needed to move forward, I always did so while maintaining my principles and integrity—and protecting the interests and concerns of those I was representing.These skills will greatly aid my council work in Crown Point.

“Please rest assured that I would not run if I did not know with certainty that I could do the work needed and make a positive difference for the people of Lake County Council District 3. Please know that my top priority will be to restore credibility and honor to our District County Council seat. I will do it right—with the right attitude…and above all, the right actions.

“Although I will miss spending time with many of my longtime colleagues in the State Legislature, I will not miss the grind of the many trips to Indianapolis and the countless nights away from home. Crown Point is much closer to my home and I believe I will enjoy the challenges and opportunities made possible by frequent in-person meetings with constituents and community leaders as well as the improved ability to monitor local government operations and projects.

“Many governmental leaders who are concerned about making a change in this council seat contacted me during the last few months. As they learned that I probably was not going back to Indianapolis after my current term, many asked that I consider running for this Council post. I am flattered, inspired and energized by their confidence in my abilities.

“My wife of 26 years, Angela, supports this possibility as long as it does not require long trips overnight and as long as my God-given abilities are utilized in continuing public service. We agree, as usual.During my final legislative session in Indianapolis, I will reach out to the voters of Lake County Council District 3 and I hope they will agree, as well.”

Story Posted:12/11/2017