Penny Githens, Monroe County Commissioner District 3
Responsibility, Integrity, and Care.
“Being a County Commissioner is both the hardest and most rewarding job I have held. Whether it’s about roads, public health, stormwater, parks, trails or other issues, I enjoy the ability to work with others to help solve the issues Monroe County faces. Let’s continue to work together to keep Monroe County a great place to live, work and raise a family.”
-Penny Githens
Expanding Access to Affordable Housing
As your incumbent Commissioner for District 3, I take pride in serving as your advocate to responsibly expand housing opportunities while upholding sustainable development practices. It is essential that we find harmony between meeting the demand for development and safeguarding the unique character of our communities. Through collaborative efforts with residents, stakeholders, and partners in both city and county government, I am committed to implementing innovative solutions that enhance housing options without sacrificing quality or environmental integrity. Together, we can foster responsible zoning policies that serve the needs of all residents while preserving the essence of what makes Monroe County such a desirable place to call home. An example of this is my support for the Rural Housing Repair program that we instituted to not only keep residents housed, but to prevent current houses from becoming uninhabitable.
Investing in Infrastructure and Increasing Access to High-Speed Internet
Expanding broadband access to every corner of Monroe County, Indiana, isn't just a goal, it's something I’m working hard to make happen. With the experience gained through my tenure and a deep understanding of our community's needs, I am confident in our ability to make this vision a reality. I am committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that every resident in Monroe County has access to high-speed internet. Together, drawing on my experience and working hand in hand with telecommunications providers, local businesses, and government agencies, we can create a network of connectivity that leaves no one behind. Universal broadband access will not only open doors to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities but also strengthen the bonds that unite us as neighbors. With our collective dedication and unwavering spirit, we'll illuminate every corner of Monroe County with the transformative power of connectivity, empowering each individual to thrive in our digital age. This is another way I’m committed to economic development.
Protecting Our Environment
I am deeply committed to implementing policies that prioritize environmental protection and sustainability. Recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding our natural resources in the face of climate change, we must preserve the complex ecosystems, clean waterways, and precious natural areas of our rural communities. This isn't just a duty, it's a promise to future generations who deserve to inherit the same bountiful and beautiful environment we cherish today. By fostering responsible stewardship of our land, water, and air, we not only preserve the very essence of Monroe County, but also ensure its resilience and vitality for years to come. As your County Commissioner I pledge to champion environmental sustainability and protect what makes Monroe County a haven for both nature enthusiasts and those who hold dear the tranquility of rural living. An example of my efforts to ensure safe drinking water for the residents of Monroe County is my support for suing the U.S. Forest Service’s plan to undertake clear-cutting, logging, burning, and applying glyphosate in a portion of the Hoosier National Forest which is in Lake Monroe’s watershed.
Opposing Involuntary Annexation
I staunchly oppose involuntary annexation efforts that threaten to drive retired residents on fixed incomes out of their homes. It is essential to safeguard the unique identities and interests of our residents against unwarranted encroachment. I am committed to advocating for policies that ensure transparency and accountability in any proposed annexation process, prioritizing the voices and concerns of all residents. By working closely with community leaders, legal experts, and grassroots advocates, I have actively resisted annexation attempts that do not align with the best interests of constituents. Protecting the rights of our rural communities and preserving their character is paramount, and I pledge to be a steadfast advocate in this fight.
