Northwest Indiana Discussion

Is Kim a Democrat now or is that something you just "heard"?

HAMMOND | Former Fourth District Councilwoman Kimberly Poland is stepping down as chairwoman of the Hammond Republican Party, effective Feb. 1.

Poland said she is leaving her options open regarding political affiliation and aspirations.

"It's difficult being the underdog in a primarily Democrat city," she said. "It was a daunting task, to say the least."

Lake County Republican Chairwoman Kim Krull appointed Poland to the position about two years ago to replace Robert Pastore.

"I was lucky to get to do it, but I feel I'm done with that aspect of my life with the Republican party," Poland said. "I think I did make it better than what it was. We are such a small group. We have a good team in place right now."

Poland's City Council term ended at the close of 2011 after voters supported her Democratic challenger, Bill Emerson, in the November general election. Now, Poland said she needs to focus on finding a career.

Krull said Poland has done a great job but understands she needs to step back.

"She really put together a great team of people in leadership positions," Krull said.

Poland found candidates to run in elections, located qualified poll workers for Election Day, organized a debate and more, Krull said.

"Kim stepped up a couple years ago when the organization was a mess," Krull said.

Krull said she hopes whoever takes over the position will build on what Poland has accomplished.

Lake County GOP Vice Chairman George Janiec said it's too soon to name contenders.

"We've got a couple people we've identified who we think will do very well," he said. "Kim Krull makes the final decision to accept the resignation and appoint a new city chair."

Janiec said Poland's resignation doesn't come as a surprise.

"When she accepted the assignment it was only on a temporary basis anyway," he said.

Poland pumped new energy into the party, he said.

"Under Kim Poland's leadership, the Republican party in Hammond has reorganized and re-energized itself," Janiec said.

Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., who also serves as chairman of the Lake County Democrats, said Poland did a good job as councilwoman and would love for her to become a Democrat.

"I would welcome her in the party with open arms," McDermott said. "I think it's something she should consider."

I don't know but I heard the same about KP. It's hard to fight the Democrat herd thing in north Lake County. As for Saligas, youl'll find his name here...

http://www.gohammond.com/web/codeenforcement.phtml

I know his name has no "s" at the end. I added it for kicks.

There are 6 Inspectors? One for each district? Do each of them get a city take home car?

And the city looks like crap still ....?????

So.....

The story is that Matt Saliga (former Republican Mayoral candidate and apparent sore loser) is working for the inspections department.

I guess being critical of the Mayor for patronage jobs can be quickly forgotten when you lose the election, quit your party, and need a job.

Do we have a new Fowler'esque Mayor's lackey?

I also heard that Kim Poland was hoping for a job when she lost the election, quit the Republican Party and joined the Democrats. Anyone know who's desk she is at (or under?)?

Seems I remember romors about mattlap enquiring about employment during his failed run for council. How soon they forget.

So you didn't ask for a job you asked to create one. Hmm now I get it.

So you didn't ask for a job you asked to create one. Hmm now I get it.