Porter County Elections Office Celebrates Renovation Completion

Porter County’s Elections & Voter Registration Office held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 25, 2025, to celebrate the completion of its renovated space at 155 Franklin St. This latest upgrade follows a challenging period for the office, which has undergone significant changes in recent years to enhance its functionality and accessibility.

The office, previously located in the basement of the Administration Building, moved to its new streetside location as part of a reorganization effort aimed at providing more space for various departments. The renovation, which cost approximately $1.5 million, has transformed the office into a more professional environment, allowing the staff to better serve the public.

The staff of eight, recognized for their exemplary service, faced considerable challenges during the transition. A major setback occurred in February when a ruptured water heater flooded the new space, damaging voting machines stored in the basement. “It just took a water heater blowing up so this place no longer feels like a restaurant,” remarked Barb Regnitz, Porter County Commissioner.

During the renovation, the office temporarily relocated to the courthouse, where they continued their operations amid the upheaval. Director Sundae Schoon expressed her pride in her team’s resilience. “They adapted and worked throughout all the chaos,” Schoon said, visibly emotional as she addressed attendees at the ceremony.

The renovated office now features improved finishes and a more spacious layout, including dedicated storage for e-poll books and election supplies. Jessica Bailey, Porter County Clerk, emphasized the importance of innovation in their operations: “We always strive for something new, to be more innovative, to push ourselves to the limit.”

Commissioners President Jim Biggs praised the office’s voter registration efforts, stating, “There ain’t one that’s got a better voter registration than we’ve got.” The new space not only enhances operational efficiency but also provides a welcoming atmosphere for the public.

As a light-hearted nod to the office’s culture, a gallery wall featuring canine candidates showcases the beloved French bulldogs owned by Director Schoon, adding a touch of personality to the professional environment.

With the completion of this renovation, the Porter County Elections & Voter Registration Office is now better equipped to meet the needs of the community, ensuring smooth operations for future elections.