Rep. Vernon G. Smith appointed to Distressed Unit Appeal Board

INDIANAPOLIS — House Democratic Leader Terry Goodin of Austin has appointed State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) to the Distressed Unit Appeal Board (DUAB).

Smith said the nonvoting, advisory position will enable him to represent the voices of citizens in Gary and Muncie, whose school districts have undergone significant changes because of recent legislative action. DUAB receives petitions from school corporations in need of relief as well as from distressed political subdivisions.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve on DUAB,” said Smith. “I look forward to offering input on the board. Even though it is a non-voting position, I will be able to represent the views of the Gary community. In legislative hearings, I also heard the plight of Muncie residents, so I will be able to represent them as well.

“I will not be an obstructionist, but will ask the pertinent questions that need to be answered in order to protect the best interests of both communities,” promised Smith. “In addition, DUAB membership will enable me to be better informed on the issues facing both school districts and will allow me to answer questions the citizens of the communities have.”