Lape files petition for VW County auditor

VW independent/submitted information

Sara Lape has decided to continue her service to Van Wert County citizens by filing her petition for Van Wert County auditor, citing her 33 years of experience and extensive, hands-on knowledge of the many aspects of local government.

The county auditor’s office is responsible for safeguarding $76 million of county residents’ money.

“I am running for county auditor as the candidate that has the qualifications, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to manage this office that is so critical to the efficient operation of our county government,” Lape said. “My 33 years of public employment, currently as personnel director, along with my hands-on experience of working every day in county government, gives me the professional background the citizens of Van Wert County deserve to continue to receive from their county auditor’s office.”

Lape noted that she believes her 33 years of experience in the Personnel Department, working closely with the auditor’s office, and her comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the laws that govern local government, makes her the best candidate to insure Van Wert County continues to provide the most cost-effective and efficient service possible through innovative use of the technology, systems, and personnel.  She is currently assisting the auditor’s office in updating the office computer technology.

Lape’s current duties include human resource director, safety coordinator, worker’s compensation coordinator, and loss control coordinator.

She has been instrumental in lowering worker’s compensation costs for the county by achieving multiple rebates and refunds. With her assistance, the county is currently self-funded in health insurance and presently paying the same premium as it had paid four years prior. She is assisting in compilations with the Budget Commission of school, township, municipalities, and county budgets, is on the abatement and incentive review committees, and has worked with the Board of Revision in real estate matters.

Lape is a graduate of Lincolnview High School and Lima Technical College, with as associate’s degree in computer programming. She has continued her education by completing courses through the State of Ohio with an emphasis on ethics and public records and safety prevention.

Through her continued education, she is current with new technology and ever changing laws and regulations.

Memberships include the Township Trustees’ Association, Regional Planning Commission, Farm Bureau, and 4-H Council, and she is a 4-H advisor. She has been elected the treasurer for the Regional Planning Board and 4-H Endowment Board.

Lape is a life-long resident of Van Wert County, is married to Phil Lape and resides in Ridge Township. She has two sons, J. Cody (Amanda) and Daniel (fiancé Elizabeth Volk) Lape, and three grandchildren: Carson, Logan and Greyson.

She is the daughter of current Van Wert County Auditor Nancy Dixon, who is not seeking another term in office.