STEUBEN FIRST
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU
First, I would like to thank those who believed in me, supported me, and voted for me. I feel the campaign was hard fought but very positive and respectful on both sides. I especially need to thank my wife, family and committee who worked tirelessly - couldn’t have done it without you. I look forward to winning again in November, and in January transitioning from Council to Commissioner to serve all the citizens of Steuben County. Thank you for your continued support!
About Rick Shipe
Putting Steuben First
As a proud lifelong resident of Steuben County, I have always held this community close to my heart. Growing up in a family business, which my father founded in 1971, and now as a second-generation water well driller, taught me the values of hard work, managing expenses, and prioritizing customer satisfaction. My extensive experience serving on the County Extension Board and 4H Fair Board as their president for several years further instilled in me the importance of effective leadership and teamwork.
When the opportunity arose to serve on the county council, I was confident I had the necessary skills and passion to make a difference in my community. First elected by caucus, and now several times by voters, I have proudly served as a councilman since 2011, working tirelessly to address the needs and concerns of my fellow residents and protect the local taxpayers’ interest above all else. In 2014, I was honored to be elected as county council president until 2023. Additionally, I currently serve on the plan commission, involved with the critical task of reviewing and updating ordinances to ensure our planning processes remain effective and efficient. Through my various board roles, I have learned that open and constructive communication is vital to achieving success. While I bring strong ideas to the table, I also value the input of others and believe that respectful conversation can lead to better decisions for our community. I look forward to bringing integrity and dedication to the Commissioner seat as I continue as your elected public servant.
“I have the foresight, experience, and energy to get the job done. I would appreciate your vote.”
In March I was nominated as Northeast Indiana District President of Association of Indiana Counties. I apperciate my fellow public servants confidence in my leadership.
Community Involvement & Experience
- Serving as NE District President for Association of Indiana Counties(AIC)
- Serving on County Council since 2011 & President 2014 - 2023
- Serving on County Plan Commission
- Serve as a Republican Precinct Committeeman
- Serve as County Council Liaison to Steuben County 4H Fair Board
- Served on County Extension Board for 8 years
- Served on Steuben County 4H Fair Board for 25 years
- President of Shipe Well Drilling family business
- Youth mentor for Tri-County & Prairie Heights Softball Coach
- 6+ generations of family heritage in Steuben
- Angola High School Graduate
As a father of four and a grandfather to six, I am committed to preserving the conservative values and quality of life that make Steuben County such a special place to call home. I am honored to offer my skills and experience as a public servant, always putting the needs of our community first and working towards a better future for us all.
How will I put Steuben First?
development first
- Continue expansion of reliable utilities, affordable housing & strong workforce
- Work with employers & industry leaders to achieve development goals
- Knowledge of construction & local infrastructure needs
- Renew & update ordinances for efficient processes
collaboration first
- Prioritize communication & coordination on efforts among our cities, towns & community leaders
- Foster a culture of teamwork across departments & elected officials
- Ensure EMS & public safety availability
Integrity first
- Respect local tax payers’ dollars with financial responsibility
- Build trusted relationships with common-sense leadership & transparent logic
- Maintain checks and balances in decision making processes
- Represent voters as their elected public servant with no personal agenda