Commissioner Meetings

Meeting Schedule

Meetings

Indiana law requires that the Board of Commissioners to hold regular monthly meetings.  The Board of Commissioners of Whitley County meet on the first and third Mondays of each month (except for holidays) at 1:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Room at the Government Building 220 West Van Buren St. Columbia City, Indiana.

Attending a Meeting/Speaking

All Commission meetings are open to the public and public comment is taken at the end of every meeting.  If you would like to be put on the agenda you will need to contact the County Auditor at 260-248-3176.
 

County Budget

The 2021 Whitley County Budget can be viewed at the website below. 

www.budgetnotices.in.gov

The 2021 Whitley County Budget Order can be viewed at the website below. 

https://www.in.gov/dlgf/2531.htm?WT.cg_n=reportslinks&WT.cg_s=whitleycounty

Real Property

The year of assessment is from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 every year, making the date of assessment for real property Jan. 1 of every year.

The Whitley County Assessor's Office is responsible for accurately and uniformly determining the market-value-in-use of every real estate property in the county. This is achieved by using three approaches to value: Cost, Income, and Sales Comparison. The State requires the annual adjustment of assessments to reflect changes in the market. Annual Trending is done at the beginning of every year, to determine if Neighborhood or Market factors may need to be adjusted according to the sales data in Whitley County. 

To access property record information click here.
 

Disclaimer

All information provided is a matter of public record. However, the information contained in this database may not be current, and may have been outdated as of the retrieval date. The database is a copy of the public record as it existed on the date of retrieval. Whitley County assumes no responsibility for the validity of any data presented herein and Whitley County assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this data.
 

Sales Disclosures

A sales disclosure form is required to be filled out with any deed that is recorded with a sales price. To access a copy of this form, click here.
 
If you wish to search Whitley County's sales disclosure database, you may do so by clicking here.
 
Affidavit of Destroyed or Removed Property
Any taxpayer removing a structure will need to file an Affidavit to Destroy FORM 135 with the County Assessor's office. All structures destroyed or removed from the Real Property must be reported to the County Assessor prior to Jan. 1 of the following year the structure was removed or destroyed in, for it to be removed from their assessment in that current tax year. 
For example: If a taxpayer removes a shed April 3, 2020, they will need to report it before Jan. 1, 2021. 
Appeals
Notice of Assessments (Form 11) are mailed annually. The statutory date for mailing Form 11 is now April 30, making the statutory deadline to appeal assessed values June 15 of that same tax year, providing the notices were mailed on or before April 30.
Taxes may NOT be appealed. 
Proper documentation will have to be provided prior to the time of the informal hearing for any resolution during the informal hearing, as stated in the instructions on the Form 130. The FORM 130 is required to be filled out and filed to initiate an appeal. 
 

E911 Communications

IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911
 
E911 and the Communications Department are located at 101 W Market Street, Columbia City IN 46725.
 
Janelle Schmitt is the Director of the Communications Department / Dispatch Center.
 
The Whitley County Sheriff's Communications Department is the hub of the department. 911 dispatchers take calls for information and for help from the public. They answer all cell 911 calls generated within the county and all land line 911 calls placed by county residents outside of Columbia City.

The Sheriff's Deputies, Churubusco Police Officers, South Whitley Police Officers and the DNR Officers assigned to Whitley County are dispatched by the 911 dispatchers.

Dispatchers are in charge of dispatching eight fire departments within Whitley County. They are the Smith Township Fire Department (Churubusco), Columbia Township Fire Department (Columbia City), Richland Township Fire Department (Larwill), Jefferson Township Fire Department, Cleveland Township Fire Department (South Whitley), Thorncreek Township Fire Department, Union Township Fire Department and Washington Township Fire Department. 

Other duties include entering warrants issued by the county courts into the local computer and the national computer and entering stolen items into the national computer.

 

LINKS:

State snow emergency by county webpage   

Demand Notices

Demand notices are mailed to taxpayers who have a balance on their personal property taxes from the previous year. 

The Whitley County Treasurer mails these notices shortly after the 1st installment (Spring) Taxes are due.
 
Upon receiving a demand notice, if taxes are not paid within 60 days a judgment is then entered at the Clerk of the Courts Office.
 
Also, the demand is turned over to a Collector and daily interest begins to accrue along with a collection agency fee.

If you have any questions concerning a demand notice, please contact the Treasurer.

 

Community Transition

The purpose of the Community Transition Program is to facilitate the successful reintegration of offenders returning to the community.
 

The transition of offenders from incarceration to the community requires attention to relevant re-entry planning (i.e., appropriate housing, sustainable employment, reliable transportation, and positive social support systems) balanced against maintaining an appropriate level of supervision necessary to maintain public safety. The Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) and the Courts have partnered to implement the Community Transition Program in accordance with Indiana Law to provide a variety of opportunities and case management services that will successfully link eligible offenders to available resources within the communities to which they will return. Offenders convicted of an A or B felony (if offense was committed before July 1, 2014), or a Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, or Level 4 felonies (if offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014) may serve up to 120 days prior to their EPRD on CTP if approved by court order through the sentencing court. Offenders convicted of an A or B felony (if offense was committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 felony (if offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014) under IC 35-48-4 and/or IC 16-42-19 may serve up to 180 days prior to their EPRD on CTP if approved by court order through the sentencing court. All charges under the current commitment period must fall under these Indiana Codes. B. Offenders convicted of a C felony (if offense was committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 5 felony (if offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014) may serve up to 90 days prior to their EPRD on the CTP if a court order of denial is not entered by the sentencing court. Offenders convicted of a C felony (if offense was committed before July 1, 2014) or Level 5 felony (if offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014) under IC 35-48-4 and/or IC 16-42-19 may serve up to 120 days prior to their EPRD on CTP if a court order of denial is not entered by the sentencing court. All charges on the current commitment period must fall under these same Indiana Codes. C. Offenders convicted of a D felony (if offense was committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 6 felony (if offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014) may serve up to 60 days prior to their EPRD on CTP if a court order of denial is not entered by the sentencing court. D. Offenders will have at least thirty (30) days remaining until their EPRD after the court’s consideration. E. The assigned CTPCD shall not affect facility transition programming, work release eligibility, or work release effective date.

 
Click here for brochure: Community Transition Program Brochure
 
Click here for Indiana Department of Correction link: http://www.in.gov/idoc

Phases & Activities of Emergency Management

The nature of management depends on local economic and social conditions. Some disaster relief experts have noted that in a sense the only real disasters are economic. Experts have long noted that the cycle of emergency management must include long-term work on infrastructure, public awareness, and even human justice issues.

The process of emergency management involves four phases: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

EMA

Mitigation

Mitigation efforts attempt to prevent hazards from developing into disasters altogether, or to reduce the effects of disasters when they occur. The mitigation phase differs from the other phases because it focuses on long-term measures for reducing or eliminating risk. Mitigative measures can be structural or non-structural. Structural measures use technological solutions, like flood levees. Non-structural measures include legislation, land-use planning (e.g. the designation of nonessential land like parks to be used as flood zones), and insurance. Mitigation is the most cost-efficient method for reducing the impact of hazards, however it is not always suitable. Mitigation does include providing regulations regarding evacuation, sanctions against those who refuse to obey the regulations (such as mandatory evacuations), and communication of potential risks to the public. Some structural mitigation measures may have adverse effects on the ecosystem.

Preparedness

In the preparedness phase, emergency managers develop plans of action for when the disaster strikes. Common preparedness measures include:

Another aspect of preparedness is casualty prediction, the study of how many deaths or injuries to expect for a given kind of event. This gives planners an idea of what resources need to be in place to respond to a particular kind of event.

Response

The respose phase includes the mobilization of the necessary emergency services and first responders in the disaster area. This is likely to include a first wave of core emergency services, such as firefighters, police and ambulance crews.

Organizational response to any significant disaster - natural or terrorist-borne - is based on existing emergency management organizational systems and processes: the Federal Response Plan (FRP) and the Incident Command System (ICS). These systems are solidified through the principles of Unified Command (UC) and Mutual Aid (MA)

Recovery

The aim of the recovery phase is to restore the affected area to its previous state. It differs from the response phase in its focus; recovery efforts are concerned with issues and decisions that must be made after immediate needs are addressed. Recovery efforts are primarily concerned with actions that involve rebuilding destroyed property, re-employment, and the repair of other essential infrastructure. An important aspect of effective recovery efforts is taking advantage of a 'window of opportunity'for the implementation of mitigative measures that might otherwise be unpopular. Citizens of the affected area are more likely to accept more mitigative changes when a recent disaster is in fresh memory.

County Drains

Whitley County has an extensive drainage system that is comprised of underground tiles and open ditches.  Some drains are taxed which means there has been an assessment rate established and a maintenance fund exists.  Other drains are non-taxed which means they were established as county regulated drains, typically through the Commissioner's or the Circuit Courts, but an assessment rate has not been established and thus a maintenance fund does not exist. 

The drains can be viewed on the Whitley County Beacon site. 

Go to the Drain Repair site to learn about repairs to county drains. 

The overseeing body for county drains is the Whitley County Drainage Board. 

Permanent structures cannot be constructed within 75 feet of a tile drain or from the top of bank of an open ditch without approval of the Drainage Board. This includes woody vegetation, structures and driveways. Proximity to drains will be checked when applicable permits are applied for. 

Following are some statistics of the system:

Open Drains            207 drains 326 miles

Tiled Drains          1,278 drains 499 miles

Taxed Drains           692 drains 655 miles

Non-Taxed Drains   793 drains 170 miles

Total Drains          1,485 drains 825 miles

Parcel Mapping

The GIS Department is responsible for maintaining all data layers pertaining to parcel splits, new subdivisions and plat map creations. We take alot of pride in providing accurate maps and improving Whitley County's mapping system. If you find a discrempancy with our maps feel free to contact our department, by either email or our Action Center.When splitting a parcel the following parcel split policy will be adhered to for all parcel splits.
 
Click here for parcel split policy.
 
Click here for Parcel Modification.

Vital Records

All Whitley County 'Birth Certificates and Death Certificates' are available from 1882-present.
 
Payment options are cash and money order. No personal checks will be accepted. Note: A Photo ID is required for all records.  A birth certificate or death certificate can be obtained in the office or by mail.

To Print a Birth Certificate or Death Certificate Application go to the left side of this page under "More Information" and scroll down to Document Center and then click on Forms and Applications.
 
Genealogy Request
 
Call Laura at the Health Department at 260-248-3121 or e-mail [email protected] for details.

Driveway Permits

A driveway permit is needed when a property owner is creating a new entrance off of a Whitley County road.  The purpose of a driveway permit is to ensure the driveway will be installed in a safe location and the placement of the driveway will not obstruct the flow of water in the side ditch.  Addresses for new parcels will be determined after the site inspection for the driveway location.

Effective December 21, 2020, per Ordinance 2020-14, the Driveway Permit Application fee is $50.00, made payable by cash or check only to the Whitley County Treasurer.  Applications can be submitted by mail to the Whitley County Highway Department or by emailing a digital copy to [email protected] . The application fee must be paid before the permit can be processed.

Please refer to Ordinance 2020-14 for the specifications on new driveway installations, permitting fees, and potential fines. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding a driveway permit, please contact the Whitley County Highway Department at 260-248-3123 or [email protected] 

Building Services

The Whitley County Building Department is responsible for issuing Building Permits and providing inspections for construction and remodeling projects in Whitley County, including Columbia City, Churubusco, Larwill, and South Whitley.
 
Permits enable the county to enforce the life-safety provisions of the building codes in Indiana.  These codes are a minimum standard, protecting life, health, property and public welfare by insuring public and private buildings meet a quality standard set for all buildings in the State of Indiana.
 
Regulated activity includes, but is not limited to, new buildings, remodeled buildings, additions, alterations of structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical elements of a building, placement of manufactured housing, decks, swimming pools, storage buildings, and electrical service upgrade.
 
Permits attained for these types of activity allows for qualified inspections to be made to insure safety and appropriate construction.  If you have questions regarding a project you are about to undertake, please contact the Department at 260-248-3112. (We do not keep copies of the building codes in our office due to frequent changes, but they can be found on the state's website: http://www.in.gov/dhs/2490.htm.)

NOTICE: The Department requests at least one business day's notice for inspection requests. As of April 1, 2020, same day inspection requests will be scheduled as following:
  *Requests received prior to 11:30 a.m. may be scheduled between 1:15 p.m - 4:00 p.m of the same day, if time slots are available.
  *Requests received after 11:30 a.m. will be considered for the following business day's schedule, or later if necessary.
  *Voicemail requests will be scheduled based on the time Staff removes them from the machine. Staff will strive to deliver a confirmation of the appointment. Please call again if you are not notified that your information was received.
To schedule an inspection, please speak with the office staff at 260-248-3111 or 260-248-3112.
 
NOTICE: As of July 27, 2012, an Improvement Location Permit will be issued for fences within the Columbia City and Churubusco Zoning Jurisdictional areas. The permit is being issued to verify that fences do not encroach over property lines or utilities. South Whitley has participated in this procedure for several years.

Conservation Programs

All Whitley County Soil & Water Conservation Districts (SWCD )programs and services are offered on a nondiscrimination basis without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, or handicap.

Child Support

KIDS Information Hotline: 1-800-840-8757

What is KIDS?

The KIDS information Hotline is a voice response system operated by the Family and Social Services Administration, Division of Family and Children - Child Support Bureau. The KIDS system can be reached through your telephone, and allows access to general information about child support programs as well as specific support payment and court order information as stored on the Indiana Support Enforcement Tracking System (ISETS). Information regarding child support payments posted by both the Clerk of the Whitley Circuit Court and State Child Support Bureau can be accessed through the KIDS system.

When Can I Use KIDS?

General information regarding child support programs can accessed 24 hours a day. Child support payments and court order information can be accessed Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Tips for Using KIDS

Before Calling:

1) Have a pen and paper ready to write down the information you hear.

2) Have your Social Security number ready when calling for specific support payment or court order information.

Using KIDS:

KIDS greets you with a menu of available options. Listen and select the menu option you wish to use by pressing the correct button on you telephone keypad. The KIDS computer will give you selected information concerning any one or all of your cases.

While in the KIDS menu system, you may press:

(#) to return to a previous menu

(0) at the end of any menu option to reach a customer service representative

(8) to have menu options repeated

(*) at the end of any menu option to end the call

Tax intercepts
Questions regarding tax intercepts should be directed to the Child Support Division of Whitley County Prosecutor's Office at (260) 244-3000.
 
FORMS
 
 

Bad Check Program

In Whitley County, merchants and individual citizens lose thousands of dollars due to bad checks. Consumers share in these losses through higher prices. The Whitley County Prosecutor's Office has a bad check enforcement program to help merchants and consumers track down bad check writers, collect and return the money to the victim, and deter future offenses. Along with benefiting the merchants and consumers, this program is designed to remove some of the load from the overburdened local police and the courts. This program is for anyone who has received a bad check in Whitley County, be that a large business, a small business, or an individual. This program provides new avenues to obtain restitution, to protect the public, and to seek justice.

A check will be determined NOT eligible and returned to you to pursue a civil remedy, if a filed check is later determined to be:

      • A stop payment check, where the issuer acted in good faith and with reasonable cause in stopping payment.  
      • A check issued by someone not competent of of legal age.
      • A check dishonored due to bank error or failure to notify the checkwriter of bank adjustment of a check. 
      • A check issued to pay an obligation arising from an illegal transaction

To participate in the program, victims need to complete a few simple steps to start the process.  There is no cost for victims to take advantage of this program.

      1. The firs step is to send the check writer a Statutory Notice by certified mail.  There is a sample Statutory Notice  in the document section.  Once you receive the receipt of the delivered certified mail or the returned undelivered certified mail, you're ready for step 2.
      2. Complete the Bad Check Crime Report and return it to the Whitley County Prosecutor's Office by US mail, email or bringing it to our office.  Please note, that incomplete information on the report will prevent our office from collecting from the check writer.  Please be diligent in getting pertinent information on the check writer when accepting checks.  
      3. Attach copies of the check(s) (front & back) as well as all supporting documents including the certified mail return receipt or undelivered letter, and copy of the Statutory Notice, etc. 
      4. Do not accept payment from the check writer after submitting the crime report. Please refer the check writer to our office at 260-244-3000.

Feel free to contact our office with any questions you may have. 

 

Election Board

Whitley County Election Board Members: 
  • Karen Western, Chairperson, Republican
  • Michael Malcolm, Vice-Chairperson, Democrat
  • Cindy Doolittle, Secretary
The Mission of the Whitley County Election Board is to promote public trust by our conduct of accurate and efficient elections with equal access to all.

Districts & Elections

Each of the Commissioners is elected from a separate district in which they must reside, but are voted upon by all voters throughout the County.  Commissioner districts must be redrawn at least once every 10 years and may be redrawn in any odd-numbered year.
 
The County Commissioners serve four year terms on a staggered basis.

Districts & Elections

Thor Hodges (R) Member 

157 N Lexington Dr.

Columbia City, IN 46725

Phone: (C) 260-229-1284

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District: At Large

James Argerbright (R) President

8855 W Division Road - 92

Pierceton, IN 46562

Phone: (C) 260-609-1480

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District: At-Large

John Barrett (R) Member

8944 E South Circle Dr.                                                  

Churubusco, IN 46723                                                     

Phone: (H) 260-693-3030  (C) 260-450-7821

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District 1: Smith and Union Townships, Columbia Northeast

Joan Western (R) Member

2550 W 400 N

Columbia City, IN 46725

Phone: (C) 260-229-9902

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District: At Large

Kim Wheeler (R) Member

6370 N State Road 5

Larwill, IN 46764

Phone: (H) 260-799-5511 (C) 260-609-7511

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District 2: Etna-Troy, Richland and Thorncreek Townships, Columbia Northwest

 

Thomas Warner (R) Vice President                   

204 Whispering Ln                                                                       

South Whitley, IN 46787                                                    

Phone: (H) 213-1902    

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District 4: Cleveland, Jefferson and Washington Townships, Columbia South

Nicholas Brewer (R) Member

1684 E Ravenwood Ln.

Columbia City, IN 46725

Phone: (C) 260-213-0760

E-mail: [email protected]

Representing District 3: Columbia 1-8

 

Personal Property

ASSESSMENT DATE--JANUARY 1 OF EVERY YEAR

DEADLINE TO FILE--MAY 15 OF EVERY YEAR

(If the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday the due date is the next business day)

Effective Jan. 1, 2023, HEA 1260 amends IC 6-1.1-3-7, 7.2 for returns required to be filed May 15, 2023. A taxpayer is NO longer required to file a return if the acquisition cost is < 80,000, AND they have filed the prior year, UNLESS the total cost now exceeds 80,000.

Churches and religious societies are NO longer required to file a return who are exempt AND have filed a return for 5 years. 

DEFINITION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY

In addition to real estate, Indiana taxes all personal property.  The taxpayer is responsible for reporting all tangible personal property that is used in their trade or business, used for the production of income, or held as an investment that should be or is subject to depreciation for federal income tax purposes.  Personal property is any property not attached to real estate, such as but not limited to farm implements, office equipment, and manufacturing equipment.

Personal Property is self-assessed by the taxpayer but then it is audited at the County Assessor's office for accuracy.  

PENALTIES

All personal property is assessed based on the January 1 assessment date.  The taxpayer takes inventory of all assets/equipment on January 1 and must report to the County Assessor by May 15.  Failure to file by May 15 will cause the taxpayer to receive a $25 penalty assessed to their tax bill.  If the taxpayer fails to file before June 15, an additional 20% will be added in addition to the original tax due and the $25 late fee.  These late fees and penalties are required by State statute to assess. 

REQUIRED FORMS

TAXPAYERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FILLING OUT THEIR OWN FORMS, OR HAVE A TAX PREPARER FILE THEM

Required forms may be found by clicking on this link

https://www.in.gov/dlgf/forms/dlgf-forms/#Personal

Whichever form applies to your business (Form 102, Form 103 Short, or Form 103 Long) must always have a Form 104 attached when filing with the County Assessor.

FORM 104 is used for public information and is NOT confidential.  This form must be included with every return.

FORM 102 is used to report all tangible farm equipment--CONFIDENTIAL

FORM 103 SHORT used for equipment cost under 150,000--CONFIDENTIAL

FORM 103 LONG used in reporting all business tangible personal property over 150,000--CONFIDENTIAL

FORM 103 T (special tooling), FORM 103 O and FORM 103 N (leased equipment), FORM 103 P (pollution), and FORM 106 (reporting adjustments) are additional forms that may be required depending on your business--CONFIDENTIAL

Per IC 6-1.1-35-9 & IC 6-1.1-35-11 & 12

The information required of a taxpayer to be filed on the Personal Property forms 102, 103 Short and Long & ERA is CONFIDENTIAL.  Any supplemental information or forms attached to a Personal Property return that support the return, including all abatement forms, are subject to same confidential standard as that for the form itself.  ONLY the taxpayer, POA, assessing employees, and anyone under contract to any assessing official are authorized to this information. 

REQUIRED INFORMATION

Recent changes in Indiana law now require taxpayers who file a Business Tangible Personal Property Return (102, 103 Short, 103 Long) to complete the entire form.  The following are regularly absent from filed returns:

Incomplete returns may result in fines pursuant to Indiana law IC 6-1.1-37-7(d).

ABATEMENTS

  • Taxpayers may qualify for a tax abatement on personal property equipment.  If the County Council or Municipality has approved a business for a tax abatement, the taxpayer must annually file the required forms with their Governing Body in order to receive compliancy.  All forms filed with the return pertaining to the ERA deduction are confidential along with the return.  The Assessor's office can not release a copy of any form filed with the return pertaining to the abatement. 

LIST OF TAXING DISCTRICTS

Taxpayers are required to report to the taxing district in which the asset/equipment is located on Jan 1.  Whitley County has 14 different taxing districts.  The situs address on March 1st will determine the taxing district.

To determine your Taxing District, visit the county's GIS, and search by the situs address.  Once located, the tax district can be determined by using the last 3 digits of the parcel id number associated with that address.  Those 3 digits should be preceded by "92".
 
For example, if the last 3 digits of the parcel number are "001", your taxing district number would be 92001.  You can also contact the Assessor's Office at 260-248-3109 for assistance in determining which district you should report to.

TOWNSHIP ASSESSORS

Due to legislative changes, township assessors no longer exist in Whitley County.  Therefore, all business personal property is to be reported to the Whitley County Assessor's Office.

Trustees continue to provide township assistance, oversee township fire departments and maintain cemeteries and parks.

Deductions

Property Tax Deductions
 
Deductions lower the amount of assessed value a taxpayer would pay taxes on. To see if you qualify for a deduction or if you have already filed, please contact the Auditor's Office. You may also visit http://www.in.gov/dlgf/2344.htm.
 
You can download forms from the Web site of the Indiana Commission on Public Records at http://www.in.gov/icpr/2364.htm
 
HEA 1344-2009 Homestead Standard Deduction Verication
 
All homeowners who receive the homestead standard deduction are being asked to verify their eligibility to continue receiving the benefit.  The TS-1A form will be mailed with property tax statements and will need to be returned to the Auditor's Office along with verification of the last five digits of Social Security Numbers AND the last five digits of your Indiana Drivers License Number.  This will apply to all owners named on the property. If this verification is not completed by December 31, 2012, you will lose your Homestead Deduction for Proprety Tax Year payable 2013.  Feel free to stop by the Auditor's Office with your identification information any time Monday-Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm.
 

General Questions

 
 
 

Fee Schedule

Fee Schedule

Court House Security

The Sheriff is in charge of Court House Security.
 
The Court House is located at 101 W Van Buren Street, Columbia City, IN 46725. The phone number for the Court House Security desk is 260-248-3148. After hours, contact the Sheriff's Department at 260-244-6410.
 
  • Do not bring weapons or knives into the Court House.
  • No cell phones allowed in the Court House.
Two hour parking is available on the east, north and west side of the Court House square. If you need longer term parking, there is parking on the side streets, where marked.
 

Tax Bill & Payments

****REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE 2023 pay 2024 YEAR ARE DUE ON MAY 10, 2024 FOR THE 1ST INSTALLMENT AND ON NOVEMBER 12, 2024 FOR THE 2ND INSTALLMENT.***
The Whitley County Treasurer offers several convenient options to make Real and Personal Property Tax Payments.

By "E-Payment" :
  • Single Electronic Payment - One time online payment
For E-Payment options click here

In person at the Whitley County Treasurer's Office, located on the second floor of the Government Building.  Please note that payment must be made in cash, check or money order.  Credit Cards are not accepted at the Treasurer's office.

By mail (all payments must be postmarked by the due date).  Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for a return receipt. 

With a credit card:  Whitley County accepts payments by credit card for personal property taxes and real estate taxes via a third-party partner, Official Payments Corporation.  We DO NOT accept Credit Card Payments. 


You can make payments by calling 1-877-690-3729.  You will need your parcel number and Whitley County's jurisdiction code 2467 to process the payment. 

Please be advised there is a charge for this service. 

 

 



 
 

Section Corners

Whitley County contains 9 Townships which are made up of all or parts of a combination of Townships 30 North, 31 North, 32 North, and 33 North, and Ranges 8 East, 9 East, and 10 East.  Whitley County falls completely within the surveying boundary established by the Second Principal Meridian.  Each Township and Range combination is made up of 36 Sections, which measure approximately 1 square mile, or 640 acres.  Within each section, there are 9 defined corners.  The system of Sections, Townships, Ranges, and Meridians make up the Public Land Survey System as it applies to Whitley County.

The section corners were either physically surveyed, or established by Federal Law, as a part of the United States Public Land Survey System.  In Whitley County, the corners were identified by wood posts between 1828 and 1839.  Over time, the wood posts were replaced by large stones or other monumentation.  Many stones have been replaced by iron pins, Harrison Monuments and other appropriate monuments for a variety of reasons.  These monuments provide the physical evidence of the basis for the property boundaries of every parcel of land within the county.

Section corners and the tie cards can be viewed on the Whitley County Beacon site. More information regarding the location of the section corners can found in the office of the County Surveyor.  This includes Surveyor Record Books, Section Corner Tie Cards, and Legal Surveys.  Additional information, including a microfilm copy of the original survey notes can be found in the office of the Whitley County Recorder.

Parcel Split Policy

Effective January 1, 2002, a stamped and signed survey must accompany ALL deeds for property splits in Whitley County.

 

Per IC 32-21-2-13(a), "If the Auditor of the county or the township assessor under IC 6-1.1-5-9 and IC 6-1.1-5-9.1 determines it necessary, an instrument transferring fee simple title to less than the whole of a tract that will result in the division of the tract into at least two (2) parcels for property tax purposes may not be recorded unless the auditor or township assessor is furnished a drawing or other reliable evidence of the following:

(1)   The number of acres in each new tax parcel being created.

(2)   The existing or absence of improvements on each new tax parcel being created.

(3)   The location within the original tract of each new tax parcel being created.

 

This policy is intended to protect present, new, and future property owners in Whitley County. It is enacted to establish a policy that will produce accurate and consistent records for future work that includes city and town annexations.

Public Health Nurse

Services of a County Health Nurse
 
Home Visits

To provide homebound elderly people in Whitley County assistance with skilled health care needs that do not qualify for care by other nursing agencies. Provided are blood sugar checks, insulin syringe filling, medication set up, vital signs checks such as blood pressure, pulse and respiration, oxygen saturation assessments, blood draws for lab tests, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections, decubitus ulcer dressing changes, suture removal, education on medications or health problems, and community resource referrals. Services are skilled care and require a physician's order and referral.
 
Communicable Diseases for Whitley County

The Public Health Nurse is responsible for epidemiological investigation of communicable diseases and reporting to Indiana State Department of Health.
 
Animal Bites for Whitley County
 
The Public Health Nurse is responsible to investigate animal bite report forms and report to Indiana State Department of Health.
 
Tuberculosis Control and Education for Whitley County

The Public Health Nurse is responsible to prevent, control and identify contacts and reactors prior to development of active cases of Tuberculosis. Provide monthly TB medications and monthly follow up therapy for patients.
 
Report and Investigate all SIDS deaths for Whitley County

Any SIDS death will be investigated by the Public Health Nurse and reported to Indiana State Department of Health.
 
Initiates and Completes all Incomplete Newborn Screenings for Whitley County

The Public Health Nurse is responsible to obtain all incomplete newborn screenings and report to Indiana State Department of Health.
 
Lead Investigation
 
To investigate high lead levels in children.

Staff

Museum Staff Contacts
   
Aaron Mathieu: Director

260-244-6372

  

Rachael Hartman: Curatorial Technician

260-244-6372

Jennifer Romano: Curatorial Technician

260-244-6372

  

 

 

Zoning

The Department coordinates zoning for the county and its various towns and cities.  The Staff can verify the zoning district designation for specific properties.  The zoning map can also be viewed at www.whitleycountygis.org.  Permitted uses and development standards can be found in the zoning ordinances for each jurisdiction listed below.  You may call the department with any questions at 260-248-3112.  Information regarding filing rezoning petitions are found under the specific jurisdiction.

Marriage Licenses

Location and Times

You must initiate your marriage license online at https://mycourts.in.gov/mlpublic/.  The applicants will need to appear at the Whitley County Clerk's Office, Second Floor, Room 10, to complete the marriage license process together, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  This should only take a few minutes.  The following requirements apply.
 
Residence

For Indiana residents, at least one applicant must reside in Whitley County and provide documentation of residency. If applicants reside in a different Indiana county, you cannot apply in Whitley County. Out of state residents may apply for a license in Whitley County only if the marriage is to be performed in Whitley County.

Required Documents

One or more of the following:

  • Valid Operator's License or Indiana State Identification, showing date of birth and current Whitley County address
  • Passport
  • Military Identification
  • Birth Certificate

Fees

Indiana Residents: $25.00

Out-of-State Residents: $65.00

PERSONAL CHECKS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.  CASH, MONEY ORDER OR CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS ONLY.  A FEE APPLIES TO USING YOUR CREDIT/DEBIT CARD.
 
A certified copy of your marriage license, for legal proof (court proceedings, employment, or Social Security) may be obtained for $4.00 per copy. For information about name change on your social security card, Visit: Social Security Office or call 1-800-772-1213.
 
Age Restriction

Applicants under 18 years of age must have an order from the court. 

License Validity

You will receive the application the same day you apply, and it expires sixty (60) days after being issued. The application is valid only if the marriage is performed in the State of Indiana. Call the County Clerk's Office at (260) 248-3102, if you have additional questions.
 
Copies of Marriage Licenses
 
If you would like to retain a certified copy of a marriage license from June 2007 to present, they are located in the Clerk's office.  May 2007 and prior are located in the File Management department in the basement of the Whitley County Government Center, 220 W Van Buren St, Columbia City, IN.  Certified copies are $4.00 each.
 
Marriage Ceremonies

Marriages may be performed by a member of the clergy (including a minister, priest, bishop, rabbi, and imam), a judge, or clerk-treasurer of a city or town. If you do not have someone to marry you, click here for a list of persons who are willing to officiate ceremonies.

 
 

Adult Records

The Whitley County Probation Department follows rules and guidelines for confidentiality required by local, state, and federal standards. The records maintained by the department are the property of the sentencing courts, and the unauthorized use of these records is prohibited.
 
Access to these records is only possible with the authorization of either the Whitley Circuit Court or the Whitley Superior Court.
 
The courts will consider the release of specified records if a written request is provided to the Chief Probation Officer. This request should include purpose for which the records are to be used. The Chief Probation Officer or a designee shall be responsible for responding to the records request.
 
Individuals making such a request should complete this form to be presented in person to the Whitley County Probation Department.

 

Child Support

Every child has the right to the care and support of both parents. The child support program enforces this right.
 
The Whitley County Prosecutor's IV-D Child Support Office offers services that include:
  • Locating absent parents
  • Establishing paternity
  • Establishing and enforcing support orders
  • Enforcing medical support orders
  • Collecting current and past due child support payments
  • Review and adjustment of current support orders
Enforcement tools include:
  • Withholding child support from an absent parent's income through income withholding orders.
  • Intercepting federal and state tax refunds and lottery and casino winnings
  • Reporting unpaid child support of $1,000 or more to credit bureaus
  • Placing liens on vehicles
  • Suspending driver's licenses, passports, or professional licenses
Who can join the IV-D Program?
  • Persons receiving TANF benefits for children in their care must pursue child support services through our office.
  • Any custodial party can get IV-D services by completing an application for services and submitting it to our office.

Services that are NOT provided include:

  • Custody or visitation dispute resolution (You must contact the court in which your case was filed.)
  • College Order Establishment
  • Unreimbursed Medical Order Establishment
  • Uninsured medical expense reimbursement calculation
  • Tax intercept resolution (Please call (317) 234-5700)

TO GET AN APPLICATION FOR SERVICES click here

Safety Committee

WHITLEY COUNTY SAFETY COMMITTEE


SAFETY COMMITTEE MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the Safety Committee is to provide and maintain a safe environment for all employees,
contractors, vendors and the general public by identifying and
correcting health hazards, evaluating accidents and training all employees in
various safe practices.


The Safety Committee meets the 3rd Friday of every other month at 9:00 a.m. in the Government Center.
Current members:
  • Amy Biggs, EMA Director
  • Virgil Fulk, Community Corrections
  • Vicki Burney, Work Release
  • Kyle Peppler, Maintenance
  • Jason Spencer, Sheriff
  • Amy Bechtold, Courthouse Representative
  • Adam Johnson, Security
  • Cami Hippenhammer, Commissioners' Assistant
  • Jennifer Shinabery, HR Director
  • Scott Wagner, Health Department
  • Ryan Getts, Highway Director

Right of Way Cut Permits

Right-of-Way Cut Permits
 
Right-of-way cuts for public or private utility are presented to the Whitley County Commissioners for approval or denial.  The permit application must be provided to the Whitley County Auditor in triplicate for presentation to the Commissioners.  Prior to the Commissioner's meeting, the County Engineer will review the permit application to verify compliance with specifications, standards, and policies of the county.  Please see the permit application here.

Role of the Commissioners

The County Commissioners job is part-time; but in reality as an elected official they are on duty and on call 24 hours a day.

The County Commissioners duties are to stay in touch with constituents.  They speak with citizens about what they want.  For example, a road complaint, a drainage issue, complaints about taxes, etc.  These are just a few things that the commissioners address daily.

Meetings are also a big part of a commissioner's role.  Regularly scheduled commissioner's meetings, special sessions and public hearings are a part of the job.  Attending community functions such as new business opening, chamber meetings, and board meeting are also necessary.

Council Meetings

The Whitley County Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 8:00 am. If any date falls on a County holiday, the meeting is scheduled for the following day.

 

Scheduled Meetings

 

Inheritance Tax

Indiana’s inheritance tax has been repealed for taxpayers who died after Dec. 31, 2012. On April 27, 2013 the Indiana General Assembly passed legislation repealing the tax, and Governor Mike Pence signed the bill into law on May 8, 2013.
 
For taxpayers who died after Dec. 31, 2012, Consents to Transfer (Form IH-14) or Notices of Intended Transfer of Checking Account (Form IH-19) are no longer required to be filed because of this repeal.
 
However, for taxpayers who died before Jan. 1, 2013, Consents to Transfer for financial accounts and Notices of Intended Transfer of Checking Accounts are still required. Inheritance tax returns (IH-6for Indiana residents and Form IH-12 for non-residents) must still be filed with the County Assessor for those who died before Jan. 1, 2013, if any transferee exceeds his or her exemption amount.

Recording Requirements

Notarization or acknowledgement: 

Most documents must be notarized or acknowledged to be recorded.  Notary must include County of Residence, Commission Expiration Date, and Notary seal.

 

Legibility of names:

All signatures must be printed or typed beneath them exactly as signed.

 

Name of person preparing document:

Documents notarized, executed, or acknowledged in the State of Indiana, must have a Prepared By statement at the conclusion of the document, including the preparer's name, which can be printed.

 

Affirmation Statement:   Go to Affirmation information

 

Transfer of documents for taxation:

All documents transferring title must have the endorsement of the Auditor's office prior to recording.  Transfer fees and Sales Disclosure fees are payable to the WhitleyCounty Auditor. 

 

Social Security numbers on documents:

Beginning January 1, 2006, it is illegal to present for recording a document that contains a Social Security number, unless required by Federal or State statue.  At this time only documents that require a Social Security number are DD-214's (military discharge papers), Federal Tax Liens, and Death Certificates.

 

Blanket assignments & releases:

Blanket assignments and releases are not accepted for recording. 

 

Document Numbering System:

November 1, 2001 to Present 

 Example:  2001120045 (year, month, and 4-digit number)

 

September 7, 2001 to October 30, 2001

Example:  200109345 (year, month, and 3-digit number)

 

December 1, 1973 to September 6, 2001

Example:  89-6-145 (year, month, and 1,2,or 3-digit number)

 

November 30, 1973 to May 22, 1838

Examples:  A-436, 36-102  (book & page)

Tax Sale

  Properties that are eligible for TAX SALE will be certified on July 1, 2023.
 You can find the status of these properties and additional  information regarding the tax sale process at:
 
www.sri-taxsale.com
 

Commonly asked questions regarding Tax Sale:

How does a property show up on a tax sale?
 
All parcels with a balance due from spring of the prior year or before are eligible for tax sale.

How will you know if your property is in danger of tax sale?

A courtesy tax sale letter will be mailed to your last known address.   This letter offers an opportunity to settle your taxes.

How can the tax sale of a property be prevented after certification?
 
Taxes must be paid and made current with no delinquencies prior to the scheduled date of the sale in order to be removed from the tax sale listing.  Delinquent Tax bills can be paid even up to the day before the sale.

If your property is sold at Tax Sale, is there a way to buy it back?

You have a year to redeem the property.  
  

If you have further questions you can go to the tax sale website:

www.sri-taxsale.com
 
or contact the Treasurer



 

Alcohol & Drug Program

Whitley Superior Court Alcohol and Drug Program provides multiple services as a means to address the needs of those individuals struggling with substance and /or substance-related issues. The purpose is to teach participants  to stop the cycle of abusing substances and committing crimes.  All services are determined by Professional Staff that have been certified by the Indiana Judicial Center. All referrals are Court ordered.
 
Director: Julie Jensen Kelley
 

Click Here To Pay Fees

EMA Staff

Emergency managers are trained in a wide variety of disciplines that support them through out the emergency life-cycle. Professional emergency managers can focus on government and community preparedness (Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government Planning), or private business preparedness . Training is provided by local, state, federal and private organizations and ranges from public information and media relations to high-level incident command and tactical skills such as studying a terrorist bombing site or controlling an emergency scene.

Under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is lead agency for emergency management. Emergencies are managed at the most-local level possible, utilizing mutual aid agreements with adjacent jurisdictions. If the emergency is terrorist related or if declared an "Incident of National Significance", the Secretary of Homeland Security will initiate the National Response Framework (NRF). Under this plan the involvement of federal resources will be made possible, integrating in with the local, county, state, or tribal entities. Management will continue to be handled at the lowest possible level utilizing the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

EMA Staff Members

Amy Biggs

Director Amy Biggs

Amy has been serving Whitley County as the Director since September of 2015! Amy also is a Full Time Captain for Fort Wayne Fire Department where she has been for over 28 years, including serving as the first female Fire Chief the agency ever had. She serves on multiple boards and committees for Whitley County and surrounding areas. Amy also has been appointed by Governor Holcomb to serve on the Indiana Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards & Education.  

In her free time Amy enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and buddy Finn. She really enjoys spending time on the lake and enjoying the beautiful view from her home in the Tri-Lakes area!

Deputy Director Edward Scott

Edward, who often goes by Ed, has served as Deputy Director for Whitley County in 2017-2018 and has came back in 2023. Ed has been a volunteer with Whitley County EMA since 2008 where he joined as an Amateur Radio operator and participated in our SKYWARN Program and RACES Team. He was a Volunteer Firefighter and EMT-B for Columbia Township Fire Department from 2009 to 2021 and was a 911 Dispatcher for the City of Columbia City for over 4 years! Ed serves on the board for Whitley County Amateur Radio Club as President, where he's been a member since 2008, and is also the Emergency Coordinator for the Whitley County ARES Team. 

In his free time Ed enjoys spending time at home with his family, especially his 3 children. He also loves going out for rides on his motorcycle, camping, playing video games, and the occasional cigar! 

 Ed Scott

EMA Volunteer Teams

There are aspects of Emergency Management and Homeland Security that couldn't be handled by just the Director and Deputy Director. Thankfully there are amazing volunteers that continue to help keep the projects and objectives of the agency moving forward. While we have specific teams, most volunteers are fluent and helpful in multiple teams and aspects. That's why we always say to new volunteers, there are many options, find the ones you like and enjoy it!

Disaster Assessment Team

More details coming soon!

Weather Spotters -SKYWARN

More details coming soon!

RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services)

More details coming soon!

Office Personnel

More details coming soon!

Public Information Team

More details coming soon!

And many, many, many more opportunities!

Address Verification

Requests for address verification for licensing purposes are processed on Mondays between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon, by the County Surveyor.  Currently, there is no fee charged for this service.  Typically, the third Monday of each month is when the Drainage Board meets.  Also, some Holidays fall on Monday.  If you have a need for an address verification, please schedule accordingly.  The form which must be submitted to the County Surveyor can be found here.

Address Requisition

The GIS Department is responsible for establishing all of the addresses for Whitley County. Therefore the following policy will be adhered to.

Address Policy

Request for new addresses shall be accompanied by an approved driveway permit, a sketch or detailed drawing, showing the proposed driveway location and distance from property lines as well as distance and direction from the nearest driveway on the opposite side of the road within these property lines.
 
This policy is to help us ensure no conflicts are created when new addresses are assigned.

Immunization Clinic

Adult & Travel Vaccinations:
 
     We provide the following adult and travel vaccinations: Tdap, Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, IPV, MMR Menningitis, Zostavax (Shingles), Yellow Fever, Typhoid, and Influeza.
 
     We recommend all travelers to check the following website for the current recommendations / requirements for the country they will be visiting. www.cdc.gov/travel
 
     Please call for prices and medical requirements for the above vaccines.
 
Childhood Vaccination Schedule:
 
     At 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 12 months, 15 months, and 18 months, then kindergarten and 6th grade.
 
We participate in the BABE program as well.

Road Repair

The ideal driving experience would be County roads that are free from potholes and other pavement issues.  We do strive to maintain and keep the County roads as safe as possible.  Due to budget restraints and the high cost of road repair materials we are only able to repair and upgrade so many miles of County roads each year.  We try to include mileage from each Township in Whitley County.  The major portion of road repairs and upgrades are done during the Summer months.  Some of the upgrades may be an inconvenience to the residents and travelers of the roadway.  Road reconstruction can be a timely process that includes grinding and reclaiming the present asphalt, covering the surface with limestone, applying calcium chloride for stabilization, installing new culverts and addressing drainage issues and applying two layers of chip and seal after the road has had a chance to settle, usually over the Winter months.
 
We welcome the comments and concerns from the Public.  We are not aware of all road issues and depend on residents to let us know of areas that need attention.  Some road issues are a quick fix while other situations may need more time and attention.  We do our best to address each situation as it is reported. 

Membership

Whitley County Historical Society Annual Dues
 
The Whitley County Historical Society is a non-profit educational organization. New members are welcome!
For membership information or to become a member of the Whitley County Historical Society, please contact the Museum at
(260) 244-6372.

*Donations are accepted.

Subdivision

A subdivision plat is a scale-drawing of a division of land showing the boundaries of the lots created.  A subdivision plat contains a legal description of the property, the name(s) of the property owner dividing the land, the location of any public rights-of-way and easements, and other special notes.

 

In contrast to a "certificate of survey" or a "plot plan" often required by lenders for mortgage purposes, a plat is a legal document that is approved by the Plan Commission, accepted by the governing body and recorded with the County Recorder.

 

Platting enables a landowner to divide his or her property in a manner that is efficient, environmentally sound, and compatible with the jurisdiction's existing or planned development pattern.  The subdivision of land and accompanying dedication of street rights-of-way can create an impact on the jurisdiction's overall development pattern.

 

Subdivision Regulations establish minimum requirements for the preparation and approval of plats.  The purpose of these requirements is to assure orderly development and the promotion of the public health, safety, and general welfare.  Lots to be platted must comply with the requirements of the underlying zoning district.

 

Contact Us

Conservation of our land and water, today, tomorrow, and the future
 
Find us by the directions and telephone numbers listed below.
 
Whitley County Soil and Water Conservation District
788 W Connexion Way - Suite C
Columbia City, IN 46725
P:  260-244-6266 ext. 3
 

Directions:

From Whitley County Government Center - go west onto W Van Buren and turn right on Line Street for .8 mile then left on US 30 .5 mile take first right turn on Armstrong Drive .06 mile then take first left turn on W Connexion Way .3 mile and 788 W Connexion is on the right hand side.

 
 
SWCD Office Staff: 

Nadean Lamle, Office Manager

Jon Gotz, Technician Contract Employee

NRCS Staff

Jeremy Palmer, District Conservationist

Filter Strip Program

Farm Service Agency (FSA)
788 W Connexion Way - Suite B
Columbia City, IN  46725
Phone 260-244-6266 Ext 2

Directions:

From Whitley County Government Center - go west onto W Van Buren and turn right on Line Street for .8 mile then left on US 30 .5 mile take first right turn on Armstrong Drive .06 mile then take first left turn on W Connexion Way .3 mile and 788 W Connexion is on the right hand side

 

FSA Staff

Lauren Shank, County Executive Director

Kathy Kneller  

Jen Sheskey


Phone - 260-244-6266 ext. 2
Fax - 855 -358-2670
[email protected]

 

If people are interested in putting in filter strips - they really need to begin with the FSA office to see if there is any cost share and then FSA will send them to our office -- but they really need to go to the FSA office not us first!!!

 

Copies of Records

Cost of Copies

$1.00 per page
$3.00 per certification
$1.00 per Chronological Case Summary (CCS)

All records are kept by the Indiana Commission on Public Records Retention Schedule.

Clerk's Records in Whitley County File Management
More current records and ones not listed here are kept in the Clerk's Office.

A Whitley County File Management Request Form is available by clicking here or contacting the Clerk's Office at (260) 248-3102 or the File Management Office at (260) 248-3143.

Most files are public record. There is a public computer in the Clerk's Office for researchers.  You may also use https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search for searching of records.  Researchers MUST perform their own searches.

Infraction Deferrals

Our Infraction Deferral program is a 6 month program and the cost is $192.50.  This amount covers the cost of the ticket as well as the deferral fee, once the signed Infraction Deferral Agreement form has been returned and processed.  (Do not pay the ticket before this process happens.  If you pay the ticket, a judgment will be entered and you will not be eligible for the deferral program.) 
The deferral program is only for speeding citations. 
To be eligible you must meet the specific criteria listed below:
  • Your speed must not be more than 20 mph over the posted speed limit.
  • You must not be speeding in a school zone.
  • You must not have more than 4 points on your driving record. 
  • CDL driver's are not eligible.
  • You must have a valid driver's license. Probationary drivers are not eligible. 
  • The deferral program is only offered for speeding offenses.  
After entering into the deferral agreement, your ticket will be dismissed at the end of the 6 month period.  You should not receive points on your driving record, provided that you do not receive any further violations within that 6 month period.   
If you think that you may qualify for the deferral, please complete the form using one of the links below.  Our office will verify if you qualify for the program and information will be sent to you within five business days.  Please contact our office if you have any questions at 260-244-3000.
 
 
 
 
If you would like a printable form to mail or fax to our office, click here.
 
 
 
 
If you would like to file your information on-line through the Action Center, click here .

ADA
NOTICE UNDER THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
WHITLEY COUNTY - ADA COMPLIANCE
In accordance with the requirements, Title II of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Whitley County, will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in admission to , access to, or operations of its programs, services or activities.

Employment:  Whitley County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices and complies with all regulations promulgated by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under Title I of the ADA.

Effective Communications:  Whitley County will generally, upon request, provide appropriate aids and services leading to effective communication for qualified person with disabilities so that they can participate equally in the Whitley County programs, services and activities, including qualified sign language, interpreters and other ways of making information and communications accessible to people who have speech, hearing or vision impairments.

Modifications to Policies and Procedures:  Whitley County will make all reasonable modifications to policies and programs to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy all of its programs, services and activities.  For example, individuals with service animals are welcomed in Whitley County offices, even where pets are generally prohibited.

Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modifications of policies and procedures to participate in a program, service or activity of Whitley County, should contact the ADA Compliance Coordinator as soon as possible, but not later than 48 hours before the scheduled event.

The ADA does not require Whitley County to take any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs or services, or impose an undue financial or administrative burden.

Questions, concerns, complaints or request for additional information regarding the ADA may be forwarded to Whitley County's designated ADA Compliance Coordinator.

Cami Hippenhammer
Commissioners' Assistant 
220 W. Van Buren St., Ste. 101
Columbia City, IN  46725
Phone Number:  260-244-2390
Email:  [email protected] 
Days/Hours Available:  Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Whitley County will not place a surcharge on a particular individual with a disability or any group of individuals with disabilities to cover the cost of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modification of policy.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF TRANSITION PLAN
Whitley County has conducted a self-evaluation of all County-owned facilities and all County programs for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and prepared a draft Transition Plan describing the results of the self-evaluation.  Title II of the ADA requires that each of the County's services, programs and activities be readily accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities.

Copies of the Transition Plan are available for public review at the following location:
  • Whitley County Government Building, 220 W. VanBuren St., Ste. 101, Columbia City, IN  (normal business hours)
  • The Transition Plan can also be found here

Whitley County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.