Richard K. Tincher is running for Wayne County Council District 4 as a Republican candidate in the 2026 general election.
2026 Election Guide
The Western Wayne News asked candidates in contested races for the Nov. 3, 2026, general election the same questions.
- List your education and employment history highlights (100 words or less).
- What are two specific reasons you decided to run for this office? (100 words or less.)
- If elected/reelected, what are your top three priorities for your time in office? (150 words or less.)
- What are two specific skills you would bring to the office to benefit constituents, if elected/reelected? (100 words or less.)
- What’s one aspect of the government body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think is working well and should continue? (100 words or less.)
- What’s one aspect of the body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think needs to change, and what specific action(s) would you pursue to change it? (100 words or less.)
- Will you accept the results of the election process even if you are not elected/reelected? (50 words or less.)
- With state and federal changes limiting funding for government services, what specific strategies will you pursue if elected to sustain the finances of the body you’re seeking to join or lead? (150 words or less)
- Beyond encouraging attendance at public meetings, how do you plan to involve residents in decision making processes that the office you seek is a part of? (100 words or less.)
- Any other comments you’d like to share about your candidacy? (150 words or less.)
Candidates were given three weeks to respond with a firm deadline and word limits. We share their answers here, unedited from their original form.
For full election coverage, visit the Western Wayne News 2026 Election Guide.
Bio highlights: Connersville High School graduate, 1981; insurance trade schools; continuing education; Indiana Government continuing education classes. I have been a general manager and business owner in the insurance industry, managing three offices and several agents. I also managed residential properties; one company had 25 rentals, and the other had 14. Also worked in and owned furniture and flooring stores. I served as Centerville Clerk-Treasurer and retired in 2024 due to health issues, which my doctors say are under control. My work experience involved strong financial management and an understanding that one decision can affect several areas and people. During my time as Centerville Clerk-Treasurer, I managed the government budget process and fund management.
Reasons you run: I wanted a second chance to make a difference in the community. I had to leave office due to my health, and thankfully I am well and ready to lead the community in an official capacity again. I like to think I can bring a different approach to the council that Wayne County needs for a bright future.
Top priorities: My top priorities are making sure that my district is getting the resources and attention they deserve. Working together with other parts of the state and local governments to ensure we are using the resources wisely and with the future in mind. And bring together the parties of Wayne County; we all want the same thing.
Specific skills: My business knowledge of building wealth with a small budget. My ability to not get discouraged and to have a positive outlook for the future.
Should continue: Our county council works very well together; they have the best interests of the public in mind when making decisions. They work as a team and have fun working together.
Needs to change: Communication with the public, so that most county citizens understand what the council is doing for the betterment of the county. Making sure someone with a concern can find an answer may not be what they think it should be, but hopefully it will help them understand why.
Accept election results: I believe that the people have the right to choose who they think will represent their interests and values. I hope that I can be that person for them.
Funding strategies: What the state and federal government is doing they are giving the counties more control over funds. I think the council has the responsibility and duty to spend all tax money wisely. As I said before, we need stronger, better communication with citizens. Some of the major projects and policies are not getting the focus that is needed for the communities.
Engaging the public: I am a member of the community. I know having your voice heard in a crowd or public meeting can be intimidating, so I encourage anyone with a concern to talk to me. Together, we can make the difference you deserve.
Other comments: My working career has prepared me for this position; it has been very diverse. Some solutions aren’t easy to suggest, but the positive results are the end game. Most of the companies that I took over were not in the best financial health. I was able to turn them around and make them profitable. Win or lose, I thank you for the opportunity.
A version of this article will appear in the October 14 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.