The Starke County Election Board members recently approved and signed a resolution that would impose a fine for candidates who are late in submitting financial statements by the state deadline.
Clerk Vicki Cooley presented that resolution to the Starke County Commissioners during their meeting this week. She said a fine of $50 per day may be imposed per state statue, but the board members have the right to waive the penalty following a hearing or reduce the amount.
Commissioner Donnie Binkley commented that he hopes that all candidates who are late are fined the same amount and are held accountable, not just select candidates.
The commissioners did not have to approve any of the resolution as it was presented for information only. Cooley said at a later time a fund will need to be set up in the budget to accept the fines. She will discuss that with the Starke County Council members at a later time.
