Campaign Trail

I had my first campaigning experience this week (other than asking everyone I know to vote for me on August 5!). I printed the opening page of my blog, and walked it around to a small neighborhood not far from my home. I knocked on about 30 doors, and spoke with only a handful of people, probably because most were still at work.

It was a humbling experience to talk about myself to strangers. It was also an exceedingly brief experience, since most people were willing to spare about 30 seconds for my sales pitch. I can't say that I'm surprised about this, but I don't know any other way to get acquainted with the residents of Whitewater Township. I do know that getting out in the community is a valuable learning opportunity, and that's enough motivation to keep up the effort.

Deputy Treasurer

It has been a terrific bonus to be the deputy treasurer of Whitewater Township, prior to running for the office of treasurer. I have been through the winter 2007 tax collection cycle, and will be in the midst of the summer 2008 tax season by the August 5 primary election. Since the role of tax collection agent is the priority of the treasurer, the experience of participating in a full year of property tax collections is vital to the success of the person in office.

I have written a brief how-to manual for our township's tax cycle, which I hope to polish this summer as the tax season progresses. It is amazing how many steps are involved in correctly and lawfully collecting, documenting and distributing property tax dollars.

I am also creating a master calendar for all of the township's cash receipts, as cash management is another priority of the treasurer. This calendar should assist the treasurer in planning for cash inflows throughout the year.