When Matt Wagley attended Ball State University he was not actively involved in campus. As a non-traditional student, he said, the age gap made being involved too difficult.
Now, the Ball State alumnus is getting involved in a big way by running for Delaware County treasurer.
The 41-year-old father and husband currently holds the position of Deputy County treasurer, one he has held for 10 years.
Wagley graduated from Burris in 1985 and immediately went to college. After a year in college, he decided to take a break. Within a few years, Wagley returned to Ball State and pursued a political science degree and graduated in 1994.
Although he wasn't involved, he said he did encourage students, especially those pursuing a career in political science, to be involved.
"Get involved in a campaign," Wagley said, "and work for someone you really believe in. That's the key."
As county treasurer, Wagley said he felt he had a lot to offer.
"With my experience, I can best serve the public," he said.
Wagley said the treasurer's office needed to transition the technology in the office.
"We need to offer credit card payments and tax information," he said. They have already begun trying to start the transition, he said.
Wagley said he planned to save the county tens of thousands of dollars.
"With 10 years experience as chief deputy, I won't need a chief deputy," Wagley said. "I can save the county $35,000 to $40,000."
Wagley also said he planned to run a more efficient office. As people retire or quit, Wagley plans to eliminate the positions. Each eliminated position could save the county around $30,000.
Wagley's campaign manager and wife of three years, Shareen Wagley, said Matt was meticulous and adamant about protocol. She said he knew tax laws like the back of his hand.
"As Matt's wife, I can say with certainty that he is very straightforward and organized," Shareen Wagley said.
Shareen Wagley said people were often angry at his office because their tax bills, rates and exemptions confused them. Her husband is a patient person and is willing to explain people's tax situations with them, Shareen Wagley said. When people leave his office, they may not be satisfied with their tax situation, but they are always satisfied with the service they received, she said.
"I try and take an unbiased look at the two candidates and always come back to the same conclusion," Shareen Wagley said. "With Matt's education and experience, he is the best candidate to be the next Delaware County treasurer."
To inform the public about his campaign, Wagley attended the Ball State vs. Navy game where he set up a campaign booth. He also attends as many community events as he can. Wagley walks local precincts and does media advertisements.
His campaign has been able to raise $16,000, mostly through small donations made by individuals that believe in his campaign, he said.
Wagley said he planned to run for another term of office if elected this time. As for now, Wagley said he had no aspirations to run for any higher offices.
"At this time, I am mainly looking at this election," he said. "I am not really looking past it."
If Wagley does not win the position of county treasurer, he said he planned to look into the community and be involved in other organizations and volunteer work.
"I'll find another way to serve the community," Wagley said.
OnlineFor more information about Wagley visit wagleyfortreasurer.com
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