Depends on the Lens
- Andrea Burniske
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
A Tippecanoe County Commissioner has far more influence over equitable, sustainable development than most residents realize. The role sits at the intersection of land use, infrastructure, budgeting, and intergovernmental coordination — the exact levers that determine whether growth benefits everyone or only a few. The following is in line with my vow to promote transparency, accountability, and customer service orientation: How a County Commissioner can lead measurable progress by using the right lens to view the job!

Use a New Lens to View Equitable, Sustainable Development in Tippecanoe County
A Smarter Approach to Growth
Tippecanoe County is growing fast. The question is whether that growth will be equitable, sustainable, and transparent — or whether it will leave residents behind. County Commissioners hold the levers that shape how development happens and who benefits.
As Commissioner, I will champion development that strengthens communities, protects natural resources, and works to ensure that every resident has access to opportunity.
1. Build Fair, Future‐Ready Communities
Commissioners approve re-zonings, subdivisions, and infrastructure commitments. These decisions determine the shape of our county for decades. I will:
Prioritize infill and redevelopment over costly sprawl
Support mixed‐income housing near jobs, schools, and transit
Require walkability, bike access, and safe road design in new developments
Ensure transparent impact analyses before major approvals
2. Expand Housing Affordability
Tippecanoe County’s housing shortage is structural — and solvable. I will:
Align zoning and infrastructure with workforce and affordable housing needs
Partner with cities, townships, and nonprofits to expand housing options
Use county‐owned land strategically for mixed‐income development
Support land banking and adaptive reuse of underutilized properties
3. Connect Transportation, Land Use & Economic Growth
Sustainable development requires mobility options that work for everyone. I will:
Coordinate with CityBus, APC, INDOT, and Purdue to align transit with growth
Require sidewalks, trails, and bike access in new subdivisions
Support regional trail networks and safe rural road upgrades
4. Protect Natural Resources & Rural Character
Our rivers, creeks, farmland, and parks are core to our identity and resilience. I will:
Strengthen floodplain protections and stormwater standards
Require green infrastructure in new developments
Preserve agricultural land through thoughtful zoning
Expand access to parks and natural areas
5. Deliver Transparency & Accountability
Residents deserve to see where tax dollars go and how decisions are made. I will:
Publish quarterly progress dashboards on capital projects and development
Create a public project tracker for roads, bridges, and major investments
Hold regular community briefings on development impacts
Require clear reporting on timelines, costs, and outcomes
6. Build Strong Regional Partnerships
Sustainable development is regional — and collaboration is essential. I will:
- Coordinate with Lafayette, West Lafayette, Purdue, and township trustees
- Work with school corporations on enrollment impacts and safe routes
- Partner with nonprofits on housing, food access, and environmental justice
- Engage employers on workforce housing and transportation needs
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A Commissioner’s job Is to ensure growth benefits everyone
Equitable development means asking, every time: Who benefits, who pays, and who is left out? I’m committed to a Tippecanoe County where growth strengthens communities, protects our environment, and expands opportunity for all residents.



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