Staff Report

WINONA LAKE — Three people have now thrown their hats into the ring in hopes of becoming the next clerk-treasurer of Winona Lake.

Kosciusko County Republican Chairman Mike Ragan said he’s now received applications from three people ahead of the caucus that will appoint a replacement to Kent Adams, who died in December.

In addition to Laurie Renier, two other candidates who have filed are Daniel Anderson and Paul DeRenzo.

Dan Anderson

Anderson, 62, is a mechanical engineer who had a lengthy career at DePuy.

“I’m a good fit for this job. I’ve got a mechanical engineering degree from Purdue. I’ve planned and executed many multi-billion budgets,” he said.

He’s a former volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters and volunteered at Fellowship Missions for several years.

He said he’s been looking for a different career path that would combine his skills, experience and desire to serve.

“In short, just based on my training, my experience and my history of service and my great love of Winona Lake, I think it’s a great fit for me, so I threw my hat in the ring,” he said.

He’s married to Kristen and they have two adult sons. They attend Warsaw Community Church.

Paul DeRenzo

DeRenzo, 61, said he was encouraged to run by a friend. He said he’s a numbers guy whose work history has included setting budgets.

He and his family, have lived in the community since 1987. He worked for Grace College for 32 years and continues to work as the public address announcer for Grace athletic events.

DeRenzo works in sales and marketing for Alick’s Home Medical in Warsaw.

He said he believes in servant leadership and is willing to help out in any way possible.

Ultimately, he said, it’s a chance to give back to the community.

“I know that sounds trite and corny, but it’s sincerely stated,” DeRenzo said.

He and his wife, Donna, have been married for 42 years. They have three daughters and ten grandchildren. They attend Pleasant View Bible Church.

Renier, who announced her candidacy Tuesday, is a deputy clerk for the town of Winona Lake.

A GOP caucus will take place at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 17, at Winona Lake Town Hall.

The deadline to file with the county clerk is Jan. 14.