At least three interested in judge's post

CELINA - City law director George Moore and local attorney Kathryn Speelman - both Republicans - have their sights set on becoming Celina Municipal Court judge next year.

Another county resident also has reportedly shown interest in the judgeship held by James Scheer, a Democrat, according to Mercer County Board of Elections Director Laura Bruns. Democrat Paul Howell of Coldwater has picked up petitions to run in the May 2 primary, she said.

Candidates have until Feb. 1 to file for the position.

Longtime judge Scheer, when contacted by the newspaper this week, said he's not ready at this time to make a public statement about his future plans.

Moore of Celina in a news release said he's a fifth-generation county resident who wants to apply his "unique set of legal skills" as judge to serve his community.

"My family and I are excited to announce that after careful consideration and prayer, I am throwing my hat in the ring for the Republican Party nomination for Celina Municipal Court Judge, which will be left vacant by Judge Scheer upon his retirement in 2017."

Moore has served as city law director since first being elected in November 2011.

"I am uniquely qualified for this position since I have handled thousands of cases at Celina Municipal Court as prosecuting attorney/city law director for Celina, including trials and jury trials, and I also have a wide variety of litigation experience including complex civil litigation in private practice/legal affiliation with attorney Keith Faber and his law firm, Faber & Associates, representing clients at all stages of litigation, including trials and appeals," Moore said.

Moore said he would adopt a "tough-on-crime" approach.

Speelman, a private practice attorney from Maria Stein, has practiced law for 18 years and served two terms on the Marion Local Board of Education. She said she's honest, fair and dedicated to the legal profession.

"I seek this position as judge because I feel I can serve the citizens of Mercer County and make a difference in the lives of those who find themselves before the court," she said.

Speelman has served as an acting judge in Scheer's absence.

"I am honored by the tremendous support I have received from family, friends and fellow attorneys, in my quest to become the Celina Municipal Court judge," she said. "As acting judge, I have gained valuable experience on the bench."

She was past president of the Mercer County Board Association and has served on the Board for Cancer Association of Mercer County and the OUR Home Family Resource Board.

Howell could not be reached for comment.