03/26/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor Visits Putnam County, Meets with Local Leaders, Farmers, and Small Business Owners
Greencastle, IN – Today, Governor Mike Braun visited Putnam County to meet with local elected officials, small business owners, and members of the agricultural community for a working lunch focused on the needs of West Central Indiana.
The discussion brought together a diverse group of community leaders, including Putnam County Commissioners Rick Woodall and Andy Beck, County Clerk and GOP Vice Chair Tracy Bridges, Sheriff Jerrod Baugh, and County Republican Secretary and local attorney Scott Bieniek. Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar also participated, offering insight from the city’s perspective.
The meeting also included local business owners and agricultural leaders, such as Carl Harlan of C Bar C, Jenny Hutcheson of Chicago Pizza, and members of the Poynter family, including Ray Jr., Noah, and Jonathan Poynter, representing multiple generations of Putnam County agriculture.
“This was a valuable opportunity to have a direct, honest conversation about what’s working and where we need to do better,” said State Representative Beau Baird. “From multi-generation farm families to young entrepreneurs building the future of agriculture, Putnam County represents the strength and potential of rural Indiana.”
“As both County Clerk and Vice Chair of our local party, I see firsthand how important it is that state leadership stays connected to our communities,” said Tracy Bridges. “Today’s conversation ensured that the voices of Putnam County residents, small businesses, and families were heard directly.”
“Strong communities are built on both sound policy and strong local leadership,” said Scott Bieniek, County Republican Secretary and local attorney. “Opportunities like this allow us to bring real-world perspectives forward and ensure decisions at the state level reflect the needs of our counties.”
Key topics included supporting small businesses, ensuring the long-term success of family farms, expanding access to new agricultural technologies, and maintaining a strong workforce pipeline in rural communities.
Several attendees represented deep-rooted agricultural operations that have been part of the community for generations, while others are part of the next wave of innovation. Noah Poynter, for example, is helping lead the adoption of drone technology in agriculture, highlighting how innovation is shaping the future of farming in Indiana.
The visit underscores the importance of continued collaboration between state leadership and local communities to strengthen Indiana’s economy and preserve its agricultural legacy.
