bert68 wrote:
Is Kim a Democrat now or is that something you just "heard"?
This was the article about her stepping down as Hammond Republican Chairwoman ...
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/hammond/hammond-gop-chair-to-step-down-feb/article_b51fa21a-8bdd-5a71-9efb-728c3aa6a3e7.htmlQuote:
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 have been told by others that she has joined the Democratic Party, and that she has been actively seeking city or county employment since the beginning of the year.
So you can take that at face value if you want ...... or you are welcome to give any other information you have heard.