The Elkhart County Republican Party wants you to know your candidates. Throughout the run toward the May 2026 Primary Election, we will be posting Q&As with your candidates to help introduce (and re-introduce) them to you – the Republican voter! All Republican candidates in the race are contacted. We begin this series with the contested race for Elkhart County Council, District 2. [Incumbent Randy Yohn (R) is not seeking re-election.]
Candidate Bio: Brian Dickerson – Brian Dickerson is a local business owner and lifelong resident of Elkhart County with extensive experience in managing a mid‑sized electrical contracting firm. A skilled electrician by trade, he brings a detailed and dedicated approach to his work in business, community service, and local politics. Brian currently provides consulting and construction services that draw on a wide breadth of experience gained over many years in the business world.
He serves as a precinct committeeman and has a distinguished record of public and community leadership. Brian is the former President of the Elkhart City Council, a past Delegate to the Indiana Republican Convention, and has served on the Board of Directors for the Elkhart County Economic Development Corporation. With a strong heart for the community, his service also includes his tenure as President of the Elkhart Breakfast Optimist Club, reflecting his ongoing commitment to community development and youth-focused initiatives.
An avid outdoorsman and shooting sports enthusiast, Brian values the traditions, natural heritage, and close‑knit character of Elkhart County. Guided by conservative values and integrity, he remains committed to strengthening the community he has proudly called home his entire life.
Why did you decide to seek election/re-election to this office? During my time on the Elkhart City Council, I was proud of what we accomplished and valued the opportunity to work alongside my fellow council members. When I learned that Randy Yohn would not be seeking reelection, I saw it as an opportunity to serve our community once again. While I understand that county government differs from city government—serving as a fiscal body rather than a legislative one—I believe I am well qualified to represent the 2nd District. My experience running a successful locally owned business, combined with my role in managing the City of Elkhart’s budget process, has prepared me to serve effectively.
What do you feel are the main issues facing this office heading into your next potential term? I believe the primary issues facing the county are economic development and navigating the uncertainty surrounding SEA 1 (formerly SB 1), and all of the upcoming tax law changes that will impact the county’s finances.
What are some elements of this job that the public may not know about? From my research, one key takeaway is the importance of understanding the council’s role. Many residents believe it functions like a city council, with direct control over departments and responsibility for creating policy. In reality, the council serves as the county’s fiscal body, working with elected officials and department heads to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and managed effectively.
Why have you decided to seek election as a Republican candidate and why are those values important to you? I was raised with conservative values and have continued to live by them throughout my life. When I previously served in elected office, I ran as a small-government fiscal conservative focused on protecting property rights and ensuring that the tax dollars citizens work so hard to earn are managed responsibly. I believe these principles are fundamental to our nation’s foundation, and I hope to help strengthen them locally while keeping Elkhart County a stronghold of conservative values.
How can voters get in touch with you and stay updated on your campaign? Voters can follow my Facebook page for updates on events and information and can reach out to me at [email protected]
Candidate Bio: Stephen Gray – Stephen Gray is a lifelong Michiana resident, small business owner, and former Baugo Township Advisory Board member committed to fiscal responsibility and transparent government.
With over a decade of experience in media and small business operations, Stephen has managed contracts, budgets, and client services in the private sector. His time on the township board provided direct experience reviewing appropriations, evaluating expenditures, and understanding the importance of responsible oversight.
Stephen and his wife are raising their children in Elkhart County and are deeply invested in protecting public safety, strengthening families, and ensuring long-term financial stability for taxpayers.
His campaign focuses on fiscal stewardship, transparency, and responsible planning to keep Elkhart County strong and prepared for future growth.
Why did you decide to seek election/re-election to this office? County government directly affects taxes, public safety, and the long-term strength of our community. This office requires steady oversight, thoughtful budgeting, and consistent accountability.
The County Council is responsible for evaluating spending decisions that shape the future of Elkhart County. That responsibility deserves careful preparation, measured judgment, and long-term thinking.
I am seeking this office to ensure taxpayer dollars are reviewed thoroughly, core services remain strong, and financial decisions are made with sustainability in mind.
Elkhart County has significant opportunity ahead. Sound fiscal management today ensures continued strength tomorrow.
What do you feel are the main issues facing this office heading into your next potential term?
The primary responsibilities ahead include:
• Long-term budget sustainability
• Public safety funding and staffing
• Responsible capital planning
• Clear financial transparency
• Coordinated mental health and community resources
As our county grows, infrastructure and service demands increase. Inflation, shifting funding sources, and long-term obligations require disciplined forecasting and careful review.
The Council must balance development with fiscal restraint, ensuring essential services remain strong while protecting taxpayers from unnecessary burdens.
What are some elements of this job that the public may not know about? The County Council is primarily a fiscal body. It does not manage daily operations of departments but approves budgets, salaries, and major appropriations.
Much of the work occurs outside regular meetings. Council members serve as liaisons to departments, review detailed financial documentation, and prepare extensively before votes are cast.
Effective service in this role requires consistent study, attention to detail, and a commitment to understanding the long-term financial impact of each decision.
Why have you decided to seek election as a Republican candidate and why are those values important to you? I am running as a Republican because I believe government should be limited, accountable, and fiscally disciplined.
Taxpayer dollars come from hardworking families and small businesses. Responsible governance means living within our means, prioritizing core services, and ensuring transparency in financial decisions.
Republican principles emphasize individual responsibility, public safety, and creating an environment where families and businesses can thrive. Those values guide my approach to public service.
How can voters get in touch with you and stay updated on your campaign? Residents can stay informed and connect through:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephengrayofficial
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.stephengrayforelkhart.com
I welcome respectful dialogue and encourage residents to reach out with questions or ideas. Strong representation begins with open communication.
Candidate Bio: John Perry – I have worked for Elkhart County Government for more than 40 years. I have been awarded the Elkhart County Employee of the year for work that saved the tax payers thousands of dollars a year in the jail. I was honored as Law Enforcement Officer of the year for the State of Indiana. I have spent my entire life in public service, I spent 22 years as a volunteer for Concord Township Fire Department and was the CEO of the non-profit before it became a government entity.
I have been a member of the Concord Youth Soccer Board of Directors for more than 20 years. I assist in maintaining the facility and I referee games. I have served as a high school baseball umpire and soccer referee for more than 15 years because I enjoy working with our area youth. I also assist with Concord Youth Baseball as an umpire. I have networked with most every agency in county government during my time at the Sheriff’s Office. I am very familiar with the funds and operation of county government as I have more than 23 years of experience in management at the county.
Why did you decide to seek election/re-election to this office? I still have a drive to serve the citizens of Elkhart County and use the years of experience and management training that the county taxpayers have allowed me to accumulate. Since I already receive a county salary, I plan to take the salary from the County Council position and return it to non-profit groups in our community who work with youth. I will do this so long as I receive both salaries, by creating a charitable foundation.
What do you feel are the main issues facing this office heading into your next potential term? Continuation of great fiscal management will be a priority. Complete transparency in the expenditure of all tax payer monies.Restore honor and integrity to county government by championing ethics and public service and work to eliminate transgressions by our employees that result in negative press and criminal charges.
What are some elements of this job that the public may not know about? The county council is the primary fiscal body of county government. I has to deevelop and approve the annual budget for all county agencies. They adopt and approve TIF districts to fund improvements and development n the county, They appoint the members of the redevelopment commission.
Why have you decided to seek election as a Republican candidate and why are those values important to you? I have been a Republican my whole life, I have worked in the party since I was a young man and was a member of the Young Repblicans. Ronald Reagan had a huge influence on my decision to be a Republican and I believe his values are as relevant today as they were then.
How can voters get in touch with you and stay updated on your campaign? I have a Facebook page under my name with campaign information. They may email me at [email protected].
