This week, we are taking a closer look at the Bartholomew County Council District 3 and 4 races in the May 8th Republican primary election.

Today we asked the candidates about tax increases.  The Bartholomew County Council has historically been reluctant to approve tax increases. By a very close vote last year, the council approved an increase in the income tax for local residents.  We asked: “What are your thoughts on that tax increase? What would it take for you to support, or would you oppose, future tax increases?”

Council District 3 covers mostly the city of Columbus. Incumbent Mark Gorbett, former two-term county sheriff and retired sheriff’s deputy, is being challenged by Dave Jones, a Cummins employee.

Jones said no truthful candidate can say they will never raise taxes:

Gorbett says his eight years as sheriff allowed him to see the effects of the tight budgets. That led him to push for the tax increase.

Council District 4 covers southwestern Bartholomew County. Incumbent Jorge Morales, who retired from Cummins, is facing former Columbus Township Assessor Tom Owens.

Owens says he will oppose future tax increases.

Morales has not yet been interviewed for this series.