An Indianapolis Star columnist referred to him as the Senate’s “idea man.” Former longtime Senate President Pro-Tem Bob Garton said “there’s almost nothing he can’t think through.” Now in his 15th year as a legislator, Sen. Luke Kenley has done more than just turn heads with his intellect. He’s turned innovative ideas into solutions for some of Indiana’s most challenging problems.

From the complexities of property tax reform and school funding formulas to the delicate negotiation of a new stadium package keeping the NFL’s Colts in Indianapolis, the former Noblesville city judge has shown extraordinary skill in getting things done. Since joining the Senate in 1992, Kenley has tackled many serious issues. Today, he is chairman of a committee that has the eyes of the state upon it – the State Commission on Tax and Fiscal Policy which has been meeting to come up with solutions to Indiana’s property tax problems.

With those kinds of achievements, it’s no wonder why the Indiana Republican party has leaned on Kenley for leadership. He co-chaired the Indiana Republican platform committee in 1994, 1996 and 1998 and served each year as the primary author.

Here’s a capsule look at some of Sen. Kenley’s work.

 TAXES

In 1995, Kenley spearheaded revival of an auto excise tax cut which slashed that burden in half for Hoosier motorists by replacing the money with gambling profits. This year, Kenley was the driving force behind real property tax reform, authoring a plan that represented the first significant change to this antiquated system in modern times. He’s also helped local units of government establish rainy day funds and has constantly led the fight to limit state spending.

 WELFARE REFORM

Kenley was a catalyst as Indiana implemented one of the nation’s first true welfare reform laws in 1995. He authored the bill that reduced welfare rolls by 50 percent. His plan was based on a system that lifted people up through personal responsibility and education, both hallmarks of Kenley’s upbringing as the oldest of eight children who learned the value of hard work through the family’s grocery business.

 TORT REFORM

Kenley successfully authored six amendments to 1995 legislation creating reasonable caps on excessive punitive damages during such litigious and argumentative times.

 STADIUM PACKAGE

When it looked like losing the Indianapolis Colts was a real possibility, Kenley was a key player in development of a 2005 legislative proposal to finance a new stadium featuring more seating and luxury accommodations and anchoring the 2007 Super Bowl champs here until at least 2034.

 YOUNG LEADERS

Kenley is not just helping solve today’s problems; he’s also planting seeds for leadership needed tomorrow. He annually sponsors a leadership conference for high school students from throughout his district and meets with them personally during an action-packed agenda of activities at the Statehouse.

 EDUCATION

A Harvard law school honor graduate, Kenley and his family have always valued education. His wife, two children, two sisters and six cousins are all teachers.