FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Republican candidate for Allen County Commissioner District 3 Paul Moss is pressing for answers after Building Commissioner Joe Hutter resigned on Oct. 30. Moss, a former eight‑year Allen County Council member, joined County Councilman Paul Lagemann and State Rep. Bob Morris for a press conference outside Citizen Square on Monday.
Call for Transparency
During an interview on Fort Wayne’s Morning News with Kayla Blakeslee, Moss said he organized the press conference after hearing concerns from residents and local business owners who rely on the county’s building department. He emphasized that the resignation’s timing – during a lame‑duck period – could affect confidence in county government.
“Whether it was forced or not is for others to decide, not me,” Moss said, noting that he stopped short of labeling the departure as a forced resignation. He added that the three officials each had their own reasons for speaking publicly.
Impact on County Operations
Moss reassured county employees and voters that the building department will continue its work through the winter months. He expects the county to appoint an interim commissioner quickly and believes the department will remain functional while a permanent replacement is identified.
He described Hutter as “a nice individual who appeared to do a good job,” but acknowledged that the future of the building commissioner’s office remains uncertain.
Broader County Concerns
Beyond the resignation, Moss highlighted several key issues facing Allen County, including the new jail, data‑center development, and a proposed casino referendum that spans Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben counties. While he said he is not a big fan of smaller‑town casinos, he recognized potential economic benefits and stressed the importance of voter input before moving forward.
Moss also warned that residents are being overtaxed. Citing Senate Bill 1, he urged local governments to focus on finding savings rather than seeking new revenue sources. “We need to look at savings for the taxpayers,” he said.
Election Context
Paul Moss is seeking the District 3 seat on the Allen County Board of Commissioners. He faces a Democratic opponent in the November 3 election. Moss says his blend of government experience and private‑sector work will help him make informed decisions for the county.
Voters will decide whether Moss’s emphasis on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and support for local businesses resonates as the race heads into its final week.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
