Porter County Elections Office Unveils Renovated Space After Setbacks

The Porter County Elections & Voter Registration Office celebrated the opening of its newly renovated space on November 25, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the office following a series of challenges. The event, attended by dozens of supporters, highlighted the resilience of the office’s dedicated staff after undergoing extensive renovations and overcoming setbacks.

In 2023, the office relocated from its previous location in the basement of the Administration Building to a more accessible ground-floor site at 155 Franklin St.. This move was part of a broader reorganization aimed at providing various departments with additional space. Although the new premises featured large plate-glass windows that improved public visibility, the interior conditions initially left much to be desired.

A major incident occurred in February when a ruptured water heater caused flooding, damaging essential voting machines stored in the basement. Barb Regnitz, Porter County Commissioner, remarked, “It just took a water heater blowing up so this place no longer feels like a restaurant.” The office previously occupied a space that had been converted from a restaurant, which presented its own set of challenges, including grease leaks from remaining kitchen equipment.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sundae Schoon, the Elections & Voter Registration Office Director, expressed her gratitude towards her team. She praised their ability to adapt amid the chaos, stating, “You guys shock me and make me proud every single day.” The emotional significance of the event was palpable as Schoon reflected on the nine months of upheaval that the staff endured.

Commissioners President Jim Biggs emphasized the office’s commitment to voter registration, asserting, “There ain’t one that’s got a better voter registration than we’ve got.” The team operated temporarily from the courthouse while undergoing a $1.5 million renovation, which not only improved the aesthetics but also enhanced functionality.

The revamped office features a spacious storage area for e-poll books and election supplies, a significant upgrade from the previous arrangement. Jessica Bailey, the Porter County Clerk who oversees the office, noted, “We always strive for something new, to be more innovative, to push ourselves to the limit.” This new environment is expected to facilitate their efforts to improve voter services and operations.

In a lighthearted touch, the renovated space includes a gallery wall dedicated to canine candidates, reflecting Schoon’s French bulldogs that have become a beloved part of the office culture.

The completion of this renovation not only marks a new chapter for the Porter County Elections & Voter Registration Office but also underscores the dedication of its staff to serve the community effectively. As they move forward, the office is better equipped to meet the demands of the electoral process while providing a welcoming environment for the public.