Cary Groninger, left, being officially sworn in as Kosciusko County Commissioner by Judge Michael Reed.

KOSCIUSKO — After winning the caucus to be named the newest Kosciusko county commissioner, Cary Groninger was officially sworn into his position this morning, Thursday, Nov. 9, by Judge Michael Reed.

Groninger was elected on the first ballot during the caucus, defeating his opponents, Sheal Dirck, Teresa Cosgrove and Joni Truex.

Groninger, 50, of Mentone, is a 1985 graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School. He is a lifetime Kosciusko County resident and was born and raised on the family farm located in Harrison Township.

He is the president of G&G Hauling & Excavating Inc., which is a company specializing in industrial and commercial site development and underground utility infrastructure. G&G Hauling & Excavating Inc. is a family owned business operating in Kosciusko County for 50 years.

Groninger is the son of Thomas and Sandra Groninger of Atwood. He is the father of three children with his wife Kathleen DeTrude Groninger.

During the caucus, Groninger 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.”

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.

Cary Groninger’s first meeting as county commissioner will be on Tuesday, Nov. 14.