Former Calumet Township Assessor's Office Chief of Staff Sues After Losing Caucus

Sondra Ford alleges she was fired without cause after losing the party caucus to Jackie Collins.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former Calumet Township Assessor's Office Chief of Staff Sondra Ford has filed a federal lawsuit claiming she was fired without cause just days after losing a party caucus to Assessor Jackie Collins. Ford alleges Collins was motivated by a desire to 'crush any political dissent' and 'punish employees' who did not support her political agenda.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the political tensions and power dynamics within the Calumet Township Assessor's Office, where the outcome of an internal party caucus appears to have led to the termination of a high-ranking official. The case raises questions about the role of politics in local government administration and the protections afforded to public employees.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Ford lost the party caucus to Collins by a vote of 26-17. Ford had criticized the undervaluation of properties like the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, which she said was assessed at only $50 million despite costing $450 million to build. Collins, who had worked in the office for nearly 20 years, touted her experience and qualifications. The lawsuit alleges Collins fired Ford shortly after the caucus, without cause.

  • Ford was fired on February 26, 2024.
  • The party caucus vote took place prior to Ford's termination.

The players

Sondra Ford

Former Chief of Staff in the Calumet Township Assessor's Office who lost a party caucus to Jackie Collins and was subsequently fired.

Jackie Collins

Calumet Township Assessor who won the party caucus and replaced former Assessor Cozey Weatherspoon Jr. after his death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She ran against her and should have dropped out as soon as (she) put her hat into the ring.”

— Jackie Collins, Calumet Township Assessor

“I have always believed in accountability and knowledge. I stressed quality work.”

— Jackie Collins, Calumet Township Assessor

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow the lawsuit to proceed to a civil trial, where Ford is seeking unspecified damages and attorney's fees.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential for political retaliation against public employees and the need for stronger protections for government workers who challenge the status quo or oppose the agendas of elected officials. It also raises concerns about the fairness and transparency of internal party caucuses in local government.