Law & Government

Our 2026 general election candidate interview series continues with Rhonda Greene, Democratic candidate for Washington County Auditor. Greene discusses reorganizing the Auditor’s Office, public records, financial reporting, technology and transparency, and outlines what she would prioritize if elected.

The City of Salem has officially commenced an infrastructure and safety improvement project along Jackson Street. Funded in part by the state’s Community Crossings Matching Grant (CCMG) program, the project will modernize stormwater management and significantly improve traffic flow and driver safety.

Our 2026 general election candidate interview series continues with Walter "Johnny Z" Zelivetz, independent candidate for Washington County Sheriff. Zelivetz discusses his campaign, law enforcement priorities, Flock cameras and what he would do if elected.

Jim Lucas, Republican candidate for Indiana House District 69, reflects on his time representing the district since 2012, discusses affordability, education, abortion, and voting laws, and explains what he believes he has learned during his time at the Statehouse. He also responds to criticism from his opponent, Chris Bowen, and outlines property tax reform as his top priority if reelected.

Democratic candidate for Washington County Sheriff, Max Greene, discusses his priorities for the Sheriff's Office, including jail operations, accountability, drug-related crime, officer recruitment and retention, and explains why his top priority if elected would be removing all Flock cameras in Washington County.

In the next addition to our Election 2026 interview series, West Washington School Board candidate Katherine Litts commends the district on its current academic and organizational results and discusses her stances on accessibility, transparency, local partnerships, and other future plans.

The Washington County Council met this past Monday, September 14 to discuss many budgetary items as they continue to finalize the county’s budget for next year.

Two people were killed Saturday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash near Vallonia. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department responded to the crash at approximately 2:14 p.m. Sept. 12 in the 2600 block of S. State Road 135.

Democratic challenger Brock Dawson discusses his priorities for criminal prosecution, including tougher prosecution of violent and repeat offenders, expanded treatment and rehabilitation opportunities for low-level drug offenders, stronger relationships between prosecutors and law enforcement, and greater support for crime victims. He also addresses the decline in criminal cases filed in Washington County and his approach to plea agreements and trials.

Libertarian candidate Tonya Hudson discusses her stances on economic development, federal involvement with local government, and her plans regarding holding town halls.

As she goes up against long-time incumbent Jim Lucas, Democratic challenger Chris Bowen explains her positions on taxation, healthcare, education, and her opposition's track record in the Statehouse.

Democratic nominee Sarah Blessing explains her stances on taxes, education, healthcare, data centers, and why her top priority in the Statehouse would be to advocate for single-issue bills.

Howard Township Trustee challenger Zenas Bowling (R) discusses his reasons for seeking the office and his emphasis on accessibility and responsible use of township funds.

Our General Election interview series is kicked off with Floyd Taylor, an independent write-in candidate for U.S. Representative District Nine.

The 2026 General Election on November 3 is quickly approaching, and The Washington County Times has compiled a complete list of candidates appearing on the ballot in Washington County, along with the public questions voters will consider on Election Day.

The commissioners gathered once again without Commissioner Marshall as he recovers from his stroke to discuss the courthouse cannon proposal and discuss various updates.

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, at approximately 5:00 pm, members of emergency services were dispatched to the area of 8459 E. Blue River Road in reference to a motorcycle crash.

On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at approximately 3:37 pm, members of emergency services were dispatched to the area near 6335 West U.S. Highway 150, Fredericksburg, Indiana for a single vehicle rollover accident.

The commissioners tackled topics such as the approval of both the design of the new 4-H building at the fairgrounds and a contract with engineer John McCoy to finalize plans. The commissioners also received a partial punch list on the highway garage project and discussed several other issues.

Monday, August 17, Livonia Volunteer Fire Rescue INC hosted a multi-department grain bin rescue training. They were taught the hazards of AG-related incidents and how to properly remove patients from grain bin situations.