Haines will seek own council term

Another primary is now a contested race.

Dave Haines filed Friday to run for a Republican nomination for Jay County Council, creating a four-way race for three at-large spots.

Haines, an incumbent, joins fellow incumbent Matt Minnich, Bryan Alexander and Ryan Wellman as GOP candidates for the council nominations. Three candidates will advance to the November general election.

Republican Jeanne Houchins is the other incumbent.

Haines will be seeking his own term after being selected by a Republican caucus to fill the remainder of Ray Newton’s term. Newton had to give up his seat on council when he was elected sheriff in 2022.

Other contested GOP primary races so far are:

•Mike Leonhard versus Doug Horn for the north district commissioner nomination

•Jonelle Foreman versus Jon Eads for county treasurer

•Greg LeMaster vs. incumbent J.D. Prescott for state representative in District 33

Other offices up for election this year include south district Jay County Commissioner, election this year include Jay County Commissioner – north and south districts, Jay County Circuit Court Judge, and county clerk of courts, coroner and surveyor. Filing continues until noon Feb. 9.