Last Saturday night at the Noblesville Eagles, Aerie 450, 1565 N. 10th St., Hamilton County Auditor Robin Mills was late to her own retirement party. In her defense, it was a surprise party friends and family told her was a fundraising event for spina bifida research.
In fact, on the way to the party, Mills detoured to an ATM to withdraw money for raffles and other potential donation opportunities. So yes, she was indeed surprised!
Mills has served the people of Hamilton County for almost 45 years, with more than half her time dedicated to the Auditor’s Office.
After graduating from Noblesville High School in 1980, she took a position with the Hamilton County Highway Department as the office administrator. She began her career in the Auditor’s Office as a Transfer and Mapping Deputy before becoming an Accounts Payable and Receivable Deputy.
In 1991, Mills was appointed Chief Deputy Auditor under County Auditor Jon Ogle. She then became County Auditor in 2001, serving two terms. In 2009, Robin was once again appointed Chief Deputy Auditor under County Auditor Dawn Coverdale and was re-elected Hamilton County Auditor in 2017 and again in 2021.
Throughout her 24-year tenure in the Auditor’s Office, the county has been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association with its “Excellence in Financial Reporting” every year. In addition, Mills has achieved significant milestones, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the office. Her commitment to transparency and the implementation of robust internal controls have set new standards. She has modernized the office by transitioning all records from paper to electronic files, bringing the office into the 21st century.
Was Robin Mills surprised by her retirement party? The Reporter submits these three photos from last Saturday night at the Noblesville Eagles and leaves it to you to decide.
Goodbye, tension . . . hello, pension!
Colleagues of County Auditor Robin Mills speak on her legacy of leadership, friendship & public service
By Bart Griesenauer, GIS Lead
Photo provided
Robin Mills, the highly respected Hamilton County Auditor, is concluding a remarkable 44 ½-year career of public service. Known simply as “Mills” around the courthouse, she began her journey in June 1980 with the Hamilton County Highway Department before transitioning to the Auditor’s Office in 1988, where she would spend the remainder of her career.
When she started, Hamilton County, Indiana, was still a predominantly rural community, with fewer than 95,000 parcels. Over the course of her tenure, the county has experienced tremendous growth, expanding to approximately 148,000 parcels today.
Mills played an instrumental role in guiding the county through this period of transformation, offering stability and leadership at every step.
Her leadership and influence, however, extend beyond numbers. A person of deep character, Mills has navigated personal and professional challenges with grace. A breast cancer survivor who also faced the unexpected loss of her husband, she has turned adversity into strength. “Speedbumps for Mills, mountains for others,” just one example of how her resilience has been a source of inspiration to those around her.
As Auditor, Mills has maintained a reputation for her unwavering standards. Despite the pressure for quick fixes in a fast-paced office, she always ensured that problems were solved the right way, not just the easy way. This dedication to integrity often required more effort and cooperation across multiple entities, but she stood firm in her belief that doing things correctly was paramount.
Mills also fostered a culture of professional growth within the Auditor’s Office. She consistently encouraged her colleagues to pursue education and development to better serve the citizens of Hamilton County. Her support extended beyond work hours; she was always available to listen and provide guidance. Her mentorship has had a lasting impact on many of her colleagues, who credit her for shaping their professional lives.
Her approach to leadership was marked by clear communication and transparency. She established a structured, organized office where expectations were well-defined, and operational procedures were consistent. This clarity allowed for efficient workflows and a sense of unity within the team.
Mills’ ability to welcome diverse opinions while decisively guiding the office through challenges set her apart as a leader. Her thoughtful listening and collaborative approach ensured that all voices were heard, but she also knew when to take charge and provide a clear solution.
As she retires, Robin Mills leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and compassion. Her four decades of dedicated service have not only contributed to the growth and stability of Hamilton County but have also shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to work alongside her.
Hamilton County is stronger because of Robin Mills, and her presence will be missed in the Auditor’s Office. Thank you, Robin Mills, for your 44 ½ years of service to this community.
By Bonnie Schwemmin, Data Entry Lead
Photo provided
For the past 18 years, I have had the privilege of working in the Transfer and Mapping Department of Hamilton County, with much of that time spent under the leadership of Robin Mills, our Auditor. During her tenure, Robin has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to lead, innovate, and foster growth within her team. Her vision and dedication have not only transformed the department but have also set the stage for continued efficiency and cost savings for years to come.
One of Robin’s most significant contributions during her time as Auditor was securing approval from the Commissioners and County Council to completely overhaul the county’s tax system. This was no small feat. The project required collaboration between multiple departments – specifically the Auditor, Treasurer, and Assessor’s offices – all working together to design and implement specialized tax software that would streamline the handling of real property in the county.
The new tax system, which touched nearly every aspect of property management within Hamilton County, fundamentally changed how processes were carried out. By integrating the work of these key departments, the system has improved the accuracy and efficiency of tax-related tasks, leading to significant time and cost savings for the county. More importantly, this project has had a positive financial impact on the taxpayers, ensuring that their money is used more efficiently.
Robin’s leadership was critical in making this large-scale transition possible. She placed great trust in her employees, giving us the confidence to take on new challenges and learn the intricacies of the new system. Her guidance and support created an environment where we could grow both professionally and personally. Robin understood the importance of investing in her team, ensuring that each of us had the skills and knowledge to navigate the changes brought by the new system.
Her commitment to fostering growth within the department is reflected in the high level of employee retention in the Transfer and Mapping Department. Many of us have remained in our roles for years, building a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to the next Auditor. This continuity ensures a smooth transition for the future, with a strong foundation of knowledgeable staff who can continue to build on the progress Robin has initiated.
As Robin Mills prepares to retire, her legacy is clear. She has not only improved the efficiency of the department and county but has also left behind a team of well-trained, dedicated employees ready to carry her work forward. Her leadership will be missed, but the impact she has made on Hamilton County will continue to be felt for years to come.
By Cindy Duncan, Administrative Assistant
Photo provided
“I love my job.” These words, often heard throughout the halls and offices of the Historic Courthouse, carry a special weight when they come from Robin Mills. While sometimes spoken with a touch of humor, there is never any doubt that the woman behind those words gives her all to the job she loves.
Robin Mills, known affectionately as “Mills” by many, has been a dedicated public servant to the citizens of Hamilton County for an impressive 44 years. Her unwavering commitment to the county and her staff has left an indelible mark on all who have worked alongside her.
For the past seven years, I have had the pleasure of working in the Hamilton County Auditor’s Office under Robin’s leadership. During this time, I’ve developed not only a deep respect for her but also a genuine admiration for the way she approaches both her work and life. She is a model of excellence, and she sets a high bar for everyone around her, expecting the same level of dedication from her team that she gives every day.
Robin Mills is, without question, a force of nature. She is tireless, fierce, and tenacious, qualities that have allowed her to thrive in the demanding world of public service. Her resilience in the face of challenges is awe-inspiring, and she is unapologetically outspoken and direct when it comes to getting the job done. These attributes are just a few of the reasons why she has been able to lead the Auditor’s Office to achieve consistent excellence year after year. Her attention to detail is meticulous, her work is thorough, and her competence and efficiency have set a standard that few could match.
Beyond her professional strengths, Robin is also someone who is deeply committed to her staff and her community. She has been a mentor to many, offering guidance, support, and feedback that help her team members grow both personally and professionally. Working with her, you quickly realize that she cares about the people behind the work as much as the work itself. This has fostered a strong, collaborative atmosphere within the Auditor’s Office, where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential.
What makes Robin truly exceptional, however, is not just her professional accomplishments, but also her deep love and commitment to her family. Even with her demanding role, she has always found a way to balance her responsibilities to the county with her dedication to her loved ones. Her family is her heart, and her devotion to them has been clear to all who know her.
Retirement, while bittersweet for those of us who will miss her presence in the office, will finally afford her the opportunity to relax and enjoy more time with her family. After 44 years of tireless service, she has more than earned this next chapter of her life.
As Robin Mills prepares to leave the courthouse behind and step into retirement, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of sadness. Her leadership, tenacity, and unyielding dedication have set a high standard that will be difficult to replace. Yet, at the same time, there is also a deep sense of gratitude for everything she has done for Hamilton County. Robin’s legacy will continue to inspire those of us who had the privilege of working with her, and her impact on the county will be felt for years to come.
Here’s to you, Mills! Enjoy your retirement – you’ve earned it!
By Jamie Baber, AP Lead
(Standing, from left) Jeffery Holton and Scott McKinney; (sitting, from left) Jamie Baber and Kris Truesdel. (Photo provided)
As Robin Mills prepares to retire after 44 years of service to Hamilton County, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the remarkable impact she has had as both a leader and a friend. Her dedication to the county and her ability to lead with strength and compassion have left a lasting impression on the community and those who have had the privilege to work with her.
In my own journey, Robin’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative. Her talent for recognizing potential in others, even when they don’t see it in themselves, has been one of her greatest gifts.
When I first started working for Hamilton County, I never anticipated where my career would take me. It was Robin’s unwavering belief in me, her guidance, and her constructive feedback that encouraged me to grow professionally and personally.
Robin fostered an environment where people felt supported and empowered to embrace new challenges. When I joined the Auditor’s Office in 2002, she encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone and take on new responsibilities. Thanks to her leadership, I was able to overcome obstacles that seemed daunting at the time. Her ability to balance strong decision-making with empathy made her a unique leader, one who made a lasting impact on those around her.
Over her four decades of service, Robin has been at the forefront of guiding Hamilton County through its tremendous growth. From overseeing critical financial projects to ensuring the fiscal stability of the county, her contributions have shaped the community in profound ways. Under her leadership, the county implemented a new tax and billing system, ensuring transparency and accuracy for taxpayers. This was no easy feat, but Robin tackled it with her trademark determination and vision.
Robin’s role as County Auditor encompassed a wide range of responsibilities – from managing payroll to handling property tax assessments. Through it all, she maintained a commitment to accountability and integrity. Her work has ensured that Hamilton County remains on solid financial ground, even as it has grown and evolved over the years.
As she prepares to retire, it is difficult to say goodbye. Robin’s absence will be deeply felt – not just because of her professional achievements, but because of the personal relationships she has built. She has been more than a boss; she has been a mentor and a friend. Her leadership has inspired all of us who have had the privilege to work alongside her, and her influence will continue to guide us.
Retirement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Robin. I am thrilled for her as she embarks on this next phase, where she will have more time to spend with her beloved family, especially her grandchildren. She has earned every bit of the joy and relaxation that retirement promises.
As we bid farewell to Robin Mills, we do so with deep gratitude. Her 44 years of service to Hamilton County are a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence. While we will miss her presence, her legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.
Robin, thank you for everything you have done – for the county and for each of us who have had the honor of working with you. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, and know that you will always be missed, but never forgotten. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter!
By Kim Rauch, Executive Assistant
Photo provided
Robin Mills, affectionately known as “Mills” to her colleagues and friends, has dedicated her entire career to serving the public.
After graduating from Noblesville High School, she entered the job market with a clear goal: to serve the people of Hamilton County. Her journey began at the Hamilton County Highway Department, where her desire to make a difference took root. Over the years, she transitioned to the Auditor’s Office, where she would eventually be elected as Hamilton County Auditor, solidifying her legacy as a leader committed to excellence.
Mills’ leadership is characterized by a rare combination of strength, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to her staff and the citizens of Hamilton County. She cultivated an environment of openness and respect, welcoming everyone with her renowned “Open Door Policy.” This policy was more than just a management technique – it was a reflection of Mills’ genuine desire to hear and understand the needs of those around her. Whether staff, friends, or constituents, people knew they could come to her for guidance, encouragement, or simply to share in life’s moments. This approach fostered a sense of trust and connection that defined her leadership style.
One of Mills’ greatest strengths was her ability to empower her team. She consistently encouraged her staff to think creatively and push boundaries to provide the highest level of public service. By creating a safe space for innovative thinking, she helped her team solve problems and meet the evolving needs of Hamilton County citizens. Her dedication to outstanding public service was matched only by her deep care for those she worked with. Mills didn’t just lead her department – she nurtured it, fostering personal and professional growth in everyone she encountered.
Mills’ leadership was also deeply rooted in her faith. A woman of strong conviction, she shared her love of God with everyone she encountered, often making decisions that reflected her values of love, mercy, and compassion. While her faith sometimes led to challenging or uncomfortable conversations, Mills’ strength and tenacity never wavered. Her focus was always on doing what was right, even when it wasn’t easy.
Having had the privilege of working alongside Mills for the last 28 years, I can personally attest to the incredible bond we have formed. Sharing our faith, celebrating life’s blessings, and weathering life’s difficulties together has created a deep friendship, one that has given us the “sisters” neither of us were born with.
As Robin Mills prepares for her well-deserved retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and unwavering service to Hamilton County. Her impact on the community and those of us who worked with her will continue to be felt for years to come. I wish her all the joy, peace, and fulfillment that retirement brings – she has certainly earned it.
By Lee Graham, Settlement Department Lead
Photo provided
For decades, Robin Mills and I have shared a bond that began in childhood, from when we were just two young girls cartwheeling down the streets of Noblesville. Our families would pack up in station wagons and visit each other for evenings filled with laughter and shared stories.
Though we went to different schools, our connection remained strong through our involvement in Job’s Daughters, 4-H, and being a part of each other’s weddings. Over the years, we watched our children grow and, more recently, have found ourselves sharing stories about our greatest joys – our grandchildren.
My journey into public service began in 1994 when I joined Hamilton County as a part of the Clerk/Orderbook Office. Eight years later, in 2002, it was Robin who gave me a nudge toward a new opportunity. She contacted me about an opening in the Auditor’s Office, and I made the move to the Accounts Payable Department. Soon after, I transitioned into the role of Settlement Clerk, a position I have proudly held for the past 20 years.
The County Auditor’s role is both complex and critical. Serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Hamilton County, the Auditor works closely with all departments, handling everything from disbursing county funds and maintaining payroll to ensuring that financial statements and annual reports are completed in accordance with state regulations. Under Robin’s leadership, these responsibilities have been managed with unwavering dedication and precision.
Perhaps one of the most significant shifts we’ve witnessed in the past few decades is the explosive growth of Hamilton County. With that growth has come a range of challenges – challenges Robin faced head-on. Through her leadership as the county’s fiscal officer, she has guided the county through many growing pains, always working toward solutions with her team. One notable achievement under Robin’s tenure was the creation of a new tax and billing system, ensuring accuracy and transparency for taxpayers. She spearheaded this project with the understanding that while the work would be daunting, the results would be worth the effort.
Additionally, Robin played a pivotal role in the development of a new financial system designed to meet the county’s increasing demand for accountability and transparency. Through all these changes, Robin has remained steadfast, a testament to her commitment to both the county and its citizens.
As we enter this next phase of life, Robin, I want to take a moment to thank you – not only for being a true friend but for being an incredible leader. Your 44 years of service to Hamilton County is an astounding achievement, demonstrating your dedication to your employees, the taxpayers, and this community. Retirement is well-deserved, and I hope you take full advantage of it to spend time with your growing family.
You are always welcome at the cabin – anytime! Enjoy every moment of what’s to come; you’ve certainly earned it.
By the Payroll Team
Photo provided
Robin embodies integrity, dedication, and compassion – not only as a dependable leader but a true source of inspiration for all fortunate enough to work alongside her. With calm confidence and genuine empathy, she instills trust and belief in her team, motivating us to reach for excellence. Her unwavering support has been a foundation for our growth, and her wisdom has guided many of us through challenges, inspiring resilience, and determination.
Thank you, Robin, for your years of service, friendship, and believing in us – even when we doubted ourselves. You’ve left an indelible mark on Hamilton County and on each of us lucky enough to call you a mentor, boss, co-worker, and friend.
Words alone cannot capture how much she has meant to the Payroll Team; her dedication, support, and friendship will forever be remembered. We wish her all the best as she enters this new chapter: retirement.
Remarkable
Outstanding
Brilliant
Impressive
Noble
Marvelous
Intelligent
Level-Headed
Lovely
Strong
By Sadie Eldridge, Real Property Lead
Photo provided
In a world where grand gestures often overshadow the impact of small, thoughtful actions, a dedicated individual can still make a difference with just a few words or a simple act of kindness.
Robin Mills is such an individual – a true difference maker.
As Hamilton County Auditor and Chief Deputy Auditor, her dedication has left an indelible mark, not just on the county, but on everyone fortunate enough to work with her.
Robin’s career has been filled with challenges – enduring the unexpected loss of her husband, battling cancer twice, navigating a historic recession, and leading through a global pandemic. Despite these hardships, she continued to serve constituents, county officials, and her team with grace, compassion, and resilience. Throughout it all, she never wavered in her support, allowing me to grow, stumble, and ultimately succeed within the organization.
What sets Robin apart is her ability to lead with both strength and humility. She gave me the freedom to lead my way, even when she had a different opinion. She allowed me to succeed on my own terms and, more importantly, learn from my failures. In moments of difficulty, there were no “I told you so’s.” Instead, she offered a listening ear and helped chart a path forward. These lessons in failure have shaped me, and her mentorship has been central to that growth.
Our relationship wasn’t without challenges, but the growth we experienced together speaks to our shared commitment to integrity. I first came to work for her in 2001 as a part-time college student. Now, after 16 years of full-time service, I can say with certainty that she helped shape me into the leader I am today. As Robin embarks on her well-deserved retirement, I hope she knows how pivotal a role she played in my journey. Her presence – day in and day out – made all the difference. Robin handled the good with celebration and the bad with grace, time and time again.
Beyond the professional sphere, Robin has shown extraordinary care on a personal level. Not many employers would rush to the hospital as a grandparent passed away or drive a panicked mother to pick up her child after a medical emergency. She consistently went above and beyond, showing empathy in moments that truly mattered.
Reflecting on my own journey as a public servant, I remember starting as a young college student, mostly there for a paycheck. After graduation, I left for the private sector, only to return years later, with Robin now serving as Chief Deputy Auditor. Her devotion to public service was immediately clear. She inspired me to adopt a similar mindset – one focused on serving those under my care, my peers, and the taxpayers of this county. Robin set a high standard for what true service looks like.
Service is a privilege. It’s about offering kindness, meeting needs, listening with understanding, and improving the lives of others. Robin, exemplified this daily. She twice surprised me by supporting my ideas. One was an initiative to educate realtors and title companies about county processes, which we’ve successfully done for eight years. The second was a program to foster collaboration within and outside our office. Although the pandemic cut this short, it was a rewarding experience while it lasted.
As Robin moves into retirement, her servant mindset will continue to inspire those she has worked with, me included. Robin has been more than a boss; she’s been a mentor and a true example of what it means to serve. Thank you for your 44.5 years of dedicated service and for being a difference maker in so many lives.
By Todd Clevenger, Grant Administrator
Photo provided
For the past 25 years, the tireless efforts and dedication of Robin Mills have quietly shaped the success of the Hamilton County Auditor’s Office.
Despite her exceptional contributions, the hard work, long hours, and steadfast commitment that Robin has demonstrated often go unnoticed. But for those who work closely with her, Robin is more than just a reliable colleague – she is a guiding force and a model of professionalism and integrity.
Robin’s career in public service spans nearly 45 years, during which she has become a pillar of governance in Hamilton County. Throughout this extensive tenure, she has exemplified the highest standards of professionalism and a deep passion for her work, which reflects her commitment to the well-being of the county’s residents. Robin’s leadership has not only facilitated the smooth functioning of the Auditor’s Office but has also contributed to the growth and positive transformation of Hamilton County as a whole.
Under her leadership, the Auditor’s Office has earned several prestigious accolades, including 35 consecutive years of Excellence in Accounting recognition. This achievement underscores the meticulous attention to detail and dedication Robin brings to her role, ensuring that public funds are managed with the utmost care and accountability. Her work has also helped the county maintain a consistent Triple-A bond rating, an accomplishment that speaks to the financial health and stability she has helped foster. Robin’s foresight and unwavering dedication to sound governance have left an indelible mark on Hamilton County, shaping not only its present but its future as well.
Robin’s contributions extend beyond numbers and budgets. Her genuine concern for the well-being of Hamilton County’s citizens has earned her the respect and admiration of the community. For her, public service is not merely a job – it is a calling. Over the years, she has established herself as a beloved figure in the county, known for her honesty, humility, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.
On a personal note, I have had the privilege of knowing Robin not just as a colleague but as a close friend. Over the past 15 years, our relationship has grown from professional respect to one of deep personal admiration. Robin’s influence on me has been profound. She has been a guiding mentor, and through her example, I have become a better version of myself. Her wisdom, her approach to leadership, and her deep conviction in public service have all shaped how I view my role in local governance.
For the past six years, I have had the honor of working alongside Robin on a daily basis, learning firsthand from her dedication to public service. She has not only been a fantastic role model but also a trusted mentor who has taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of integrity in government and the power of leading with compassion and purpose. Her ability to balance the demands of her job with a sincere concern for the community’s needs is something I strive to emulate in my own work.
Robin Mills epitomizes what it means to be both an elected official and a public servant. Her passion for good governance, coupled with her unwavering devotion to the people of Hamilton County, sets her apart. Her leadership has not only improved the lives of those who live in the county but has also inspired those who have had the privilege of working with her.
I want to personally thank Robin for her inspirational leadership and unwavering support throughout the years. It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve alongside her. Robin, thank you for being an exemplary public servant, a true champion for Hamilton County, and, most of all, a phenomenal friend.