Warrick County, Indiana – In a move that highlights the strength of local government collaboration, Ohio Township Trustee Chad Bennett was elected vice president of the Indiana Township Association (ITA) Board of Directors at the organization’s annual convention in Noblesville.
Leadership experience and new responsibilities
Bennett, who previously served as the Southwest Area Director on the ITA board, will now work alongside newly elected ITA President Lisa Pierzakowski, Center Township Trustee in La Porte County. Together they will steer the association’s legislative advocacy, educational programs, and resource offerings for township officials across Indiana.
Why the election matters for Indiana townships
The ITA represents more than 1,000 township officials who oversee essential services such as emergency assistance, fire protection, and cemetery maintenance. By selecting a trustee with hands‑on experience in the southwestern region, the board signals its commitment to ensuring that policies and training reflect the diverse needs of townships from the Ohio River to the Michigan border.
John Wales, Executive Director of the Indiana Township Association, praised Bennett’s appointment: “Chad has been an outstanding member of our Board of Directors, and we are excited to see him take on this expanded leadership role. He brings energy, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the people and communities township government serves.”
Focus areas for the new leadership team
During the convention, Wales outlined three priority areas for the ITA under Bennett and Pierzakowski’s guidance:
- Legislative advocacy: Working with state lawmakers to protect township funding and authority, especially in areas like disaster relief and infrastructure.
- Educational programs: Expanding training webinars, workshops, and conferences that help trustees and clerks stay current on best practices and regulatory changes.
- Resource distribution: Providing templates, legal guidance, and peer‑to‑peer networks so township officials can more efficiently serve their constituents.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of “working together, sharing ideas, and finding practical solutions” to the challenges faced by Indiana’s 1,000‑plus townships.
Local impact and community response
Residents and local officials in Warrick County and the broader southwestern region have welcomed the news. Many see Bennett’s elevation as a sign that the concerns of smaller, rural townships will have a louder voice at the state level.
“Having someone from our part of the state in a senior ITA role gives us confidence that our unique needs won’t be overlooked,” said a fellow township trustee from Gibson County.
The ITA’s annual convention, held each spring in Noblesville, brings together trustees, clerks, and other township staff for networking and policy discussion. This year’s election marks a continuity of leadership that many believe will strengthen the association’s influence in upcoming legislative sessions.
Looking ahead
As the new board takes shape, the ITA plans to host additional training sessions focused on emergency management, fiscal responsibility, and modernizing cemetery upkeep. Bennett’s experience managing Ohio Township’s budget and community services is expected to inform these initiatives.
With the upcoming Indiana General Assembly session, the ITA’s advocacy team will be closely monitoring bills that could affect township autonomy and funding. Bennett and Pierzakowski have pledged to keep township officials informed and to mobilize grassroots support when needed.
For more information about the Indiana Township Association’s programs and upcoming events, visit the ITA website or contact the association’s office in Noblesville.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
