Kenley responds to Williams

Dear Editor:

As Trustee of Noblesville Township I feel compelled to respond to the factual errors and exaggerations presented by Mr. Williams in his recent letter to the editor published in The Reporter.

First, I would like to point out that the correct salary for our board members is $12,400 annually. Mr. Williams incorrectly reported that it was $15,000. He also failed to mention the board’s current salary was a compromise in exchange for the elimination of township paid benefits such as medical insurance and PERF retirement accounts. The proposal for the elimination of township board benefits along with salary adjustments as compensation for the lost benefits was presented to the board by the trustee. The proposal was designed to have a net zero impact on the township budget while protecting the township from future increases in benefit expenses.

After much discussion the board voted to accept an adjusted salary of $12,000 and the elimination of the above mentioned benefits. This resulted in no increase in the budget and with future savings for the township. One board member actually received less than her prior year’s total compensation package. Thus, there was not an increase in compensation by a board vote but rather a restructure of how they were paid. The board has voted for a mere $400 salary increase over the past two years.

Second, Mr. Williams’ assertion that the board only puts in three to five hours a year is again simply incorrect. We meet monthly, and on average the length of our meeting is one to two hours, as recorded in our minutes book. All of them take the time to review materials on their own prior to the public meetings. They attend meetings held by the Hamilton County Trustee’s Association and also represent the Trustee’s Office at other important community events.

Finally, I would like to point out that the Noblesville Township general property tax rate has declined in 2017 and 2018 under my administration, and with the supporting vote of the board. Coupled with this decrease in your tax rate we have provided additional township services, more assistance to residents who qualify, and a dedicated staff to better serve the needs of our community. We stand on the record of our accomplishments. All is well in our township, and I don’t believe for a moment that our duties to the public would be handled more efficiently or more cost effective by the county government without a serious reduction in the services we provide to the citizens of Noblesville.

Thank You,

Tom Kenley

Noblesville Township Trustee