Warren Steffen (Republican) Howard County Treasurer

Howard County - In the weeks leading up to the 2018 election, the Times Plain Dealer is going to introduce readers to candidates for a few of the local races. This week, the paper is highlighting the candidates for Howard County Supervisor — District 2. District 3 candidates will be featured next week. In addition this week, the Howard County Attorney, Recorder and Treasurer will answer questions. See their responses on page A-18.

Election Day 2018 is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 6. There is no presidential election, but many federal and state legislators are up for election, and county offices are also being voted on, and mid-term elections can determine the balance of power between the major parties. Don’t forget to vote!

• Family: Steffen’s family consists of wife, Karen; son, Jared (Tina) and daughter, Emma; and daughter, Sara (Rich) and two daughters, Olivia and Eva

• Why are you running for office and what are your short and long-term goals?

I am running for office because I love my job and the people I work with are very knowledgeable and great to work with. 

Goals for the Treasurer’s office are to stay on top of everything going on in the world of the DOT and keep up with all the new laws created every year.

• What knowledge and skills would you bring to the office?

I bring 32 years of knowledge to the office. My staff brings a total of 83 years of knowledge to the office. As far as skills, we are able to do our job in a professional way, and we are on top of all the laws created every year. 

• What do you see as the biggest challenge for Howard County and how can it be addressed?

The biggest challenge I see for Howard County is trying to keep state funding on mandatory credits created by the state. If we lose them, the only way to make up the lost funding is by taxes. We can address these challenges by talking to our legislators about the need to keep state funding on mandatory credits.

• Any other comments?

Howard County is in great financial shape at this time. We need to thank all offices for making good financial decisions and the fact that all offices are working together. Howard County is a great place to raise a family.