By Ray Balogh
InkFreeNews

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — Cary P. Groninger, Republican, and Travis J. McConnell, Democrat, will square off Nov. 3 for election as county commissioner of the middle district. The Mail-Journal asked each candidate two questions about the position they are seeking. Their answers appear in alphabetical order.

1. What are the three most urgent challenges facing the citizens and businesses of Kosciusko County?

CARY P. GRONINGER

TRAVIS J. McCONNELL

Groninger: “My goal as county commissioner is to prepare Kosciusko County for the next generation so our children will want to live, work and raise their children in Kosciusko County.

“In today’s world, what used to be a nicety is now a necessity. If we want young people to live in rural Kosciusko County, we must be forward thinking. Therefore, the three most urgent challenges facing the citizens and businesses of Kosciusko County are as follows: countywide rural broadband, workforce housing and a comprehensive plan for the entire county.”

McConnell: “One, COVID-19 and its impact on our local economy; two, continued economic development in an increasingly competitive world; and three, attracting and retaining community members who are the key to growing a successful community for all of us.”

2. How can the county commissioners best address each of those challenges?

Groninger: “The commissioners are in the process of building public safety communication towers, which will be used for our emergency services and can also be used for rural broadband. Additionally, the commissioners are working with Kosciusko REMC to provide internet services to current customers.

“To address workforce housing needs, we have completed a housing strategies study for Kosciusko County and are in the process of implementing the goals we have set forth.

“Lastly, the commissioners have partnered with local foundations to fund a comprehensive plan. We are in the process of building a plan, both at the small town level and the county level that will serve as a blueprint for future growth as we go forward.”

McConnell: “Our county was fortunate to recover fairly quickly following the shutdown and has adapted well to the more distant reality we are living in currently. Notwithstanding that, many sectors of our economy are still hurting, most notably the live event sector like the Wagon Wheel.

“There are many great organizations already working to better our community. Our county leadership needs to reach out and find out where it can best fill gaps that are not being filled. For my full views, see my website www.wetrusttravis.com.”