Lake County Clerk Race: Democratic Incumbent Mike Brown vs. Republican Challenger Leslie Dallner

A Democratic incumbent seeks to conclude his final term as Lake County Clerk, while a Republican candidate aims for her first county role. Incumbent Mike Brown, a seasoned Democratic official, faces Republican Leslie Dallner in the race for Lake County Circuit Court Clerk.

Mike Brown’s Experience and Achievements

Brown, hailing from Gary, brings over two decades of public service experience. This year marks his 13th year as Lake County Clerk. His educational background includes marketing and accounting from Ivy Tech. His career spans roles with the Hoosier Lottery and the Lake County Coroner’s Office. He also held positions on the Gary City Council and served twice as Lake County Recorder.

Brown’s initiatives in the clerk’s office include community programs, technological advancements, and streamlined processes. “This is why I’m suited for this role,” Brown noted. He emphasized the importance of embracing technological progress for efficient service delivery.

“I believe this has been my calling. I’m enthusiastic about serving, and I ask voters for another opportunity to do so,” Brown stated. He expressed pride in his team, highlighting their contributions.

Brown ascended to the clerk’s position in 2009 via caucus, filling the vacant term of a predecessor. He later served on the Gary City Council and returned as Lake County Clerk in 2022. Due to term limits, he has four more years to potentially serve.

Brown mentioned recent programs such as a language translation machine in the clerk’s office and their contribution to county budget savings. “We’re proactive,” he explained, noting that staff at all levels contribute ideas for improvement.

Additional programs under Brown include internships, expungement assistance, school visits, and collaborations with mental health groups. Brown asserted the integrity of the election process, ensuring voting security.

Leslie Dallner’s Vision for Change

Leslie Dallner, from Hobart, offers over 25 years in financial analysis, with accounting expertise. She graduated from Indiana University Northwest with a business degree. Her platform centers on “Three T’s”: transparency, technology, and transformation.

“Serving is crucial as it represents the people,” Dallner said. “Engaging with the community informs necessary changes.” Her focus remains on maintaining government integrity.

Dallner aims to minimize waste, keep a balanced budget, and modernize through technology. Plans include electronic forms for efficient document requests.

Dallner prioritized election security improvements, advocating for audits of voter rolls. She raised concerns following her experience as an election judge, claiming unaddressed violations of Indiana election law.

Her political involvement began with the Highland GOP and a campaign against Ragen Hatcher in 2024. Dallner seeks grassroots connections with voters.

December 2024 removed Lake County from the State Board of Accounts’ unauditable list, though past audits showed issues like payroll errors and tax miscalculations. Dallner highlighted the impact on property taxes due to an $18 million credit issue.

She stressed collaboration between county offices to enhance efficiency. “The clerk’s office, recorder, auditor, and treasurer must work together,” she emphasized.

Brown said the clerk’s office has gained clearance from the State Board of Accounts for 2024 and 2025, reflecting their fiscal responsibility.

Conclusion

The Lake County Clerk race presents a choice between Mike Brown’s experienced leadership and Leslie Dallner’s vision for reform. Voters will decide who will manage the vital responsibilities involved in this crucial role.