Mike Ragan, left, Kosciusko County Republican Chairman, congratulates Cary Groninger after being elected Kosciusko County Commissioner-Middle District.

WARSAW — The official oath of office will be administered to Cary Groninger, newly elected Kosciusko County Commissioner-Middle District at 8 a.m. Thursday morning, Nov. 9. Groninger was elected by precinct committeemen Wednesday evening during a county Republican Caucus.

Groninger will fill the remaining three-year term of Ron Truex, who resigned in October due to a residency move outside the middle district boundaries.

Groninger was elected on the first ballot during the caucus, defeating his opponents, Sheal Dirck, Teresa Cosgrove and Joni Truex. There were 44 precinct committeemen present, with three proxies filed by chairmen in Turkey Creek 1, 5 and Washington 3. In those instances voting privileges were given to vice chairmen.

“Thank you very much, I’m honored and humbled to serve as county commissioner here in Kosciusko County,” stated Groninger. “I’m here to work hard for you, do a great job, love this community, just want to give back any way that I can.”

Each candidates spoke for three minutes focusing on their personal history as well as their experiences, which would be a benefit if elected.

Dirk, who has lived in the district all his life, noted his community involvement. He noted for the past 16 years he has been president of the family business, which includes running the budget and payroll. He briefly stated his belief in not spending money unnecessarily and in maintaining the current infrastructure in the county along with improving it.

Groninger, president of G&G Hauling and Excavating, stated it is necessary to support the county’s industry base and well being of residents. He stated he felt he was uniquely qualified for the position due to his broad range of experience — farming with his father growing up, having his own hog operation while in high school, and in the family business for 26 years. As president of the family business he oversees all aspect of management and the needs of the employees to be successful. Additionally, he noted working with many of the county department heads. “I have the experience and relationship to hit the ground running. I will work with the same spirit, enthusiasm and dedication Ron did. I’m an all in kind of guy.”

Kosciusko County Commissioner-Southern District Bob Conley, left, congratulates Cary Groninger after winning the Kosciusko County Republican Caucus for Kosciusko County Commissioner-Middle District.

Cosgrove spoke of her military experience, noting she has an associate’s degree in accounting and bachelor’s degree in organizational management. She is working on her master’s degree in intelligence. She stated she currently is working at home and has committed to working for Susan B. Anthony. Briefly she noted her position on spending, stating the need to look for the best deal, and while she feels taxes should be kept down, there is a need to stimulate the economy and businesses in the county.

Truex noted her great working relationship with fellow council members would benefit her as a commissioner and has gained a better understanding of county government finances and budgets. Truex noted she has worked in the political arena for more than 12 years and her MBA has given her the opportunity to teach college level courses at Ivy Tech Community College and Indiana Tech. Truex noted a past position as employee benefits director, certifications she holds and experience working with the area planning in rezoning. Additionally she noted, as a grain farmer, she understands the importance of protecting tillable acreage, balancing land use between all involved.