(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioner Andy Laughlin has filed paperwork to seek a second term representing the county's North District.
Laughlin, a Republican, submitted his reelection filing Friday at the Steuben County Clerk's Office. He was first elected in 2022 as a first-time candidate and began his term in 2023.
It is not yet clear whether Laughlin will face opposition in the Republican primary this spring or from a Democratic challenger in the November general election. His first run included a competitive primary against then-county council member Jim Getz.
Laughlin said one of the major issues facing the county moving forward is the aging county jail, which is now more than 30 years old. He pointed to recent work addressing roof and HVAC needs and said long-term maintenance planning will be key to extending the facility's lifespan and controlling costs for taxpayers.
Laughlin currently serves as vice president of the Steuben County Board of Commissioners and as president of the Steuben County Drainage Board.
He has also served on the Crime Stoppers board and the Council on Aging board at the Heritage Club, and regularly participates in regional mayor-commissioner meetings.
Outside of county government, Laughlin is a varsity football coach at Fremont High School. He and his wife, Kara, have two children who attend the school. The family is active in local organizations, including Peace Lutheran Church and the YMCA of Steuben County.
Laughlin said he values Steuben County's quality of life and hopes to continue working on infrastructure and facility needs if reelected.