(11-12-26) PRESS RELEASE
There recently has been some questions raised about the Mercer County Republican Party’s response to the allegations against Celina City Council Member Steve Schulte who was reportedly arrested for OVI by Celina City Police Department on September 27, 2026. Mr. Schulte allegedly made comments that potentially threatened, pressured or intimidated arresting officers.
If true, the alleged comments Mr. Schulte made at the time of the arrest were completely inappropriate and unacceptable!
It is my understanding that neither the city of Celina nor the Mercer County Republican Party can force Mr. Schulte to resign from his elected office as city councilman.
In regards to the City of Celina’s response, I have had several discussions with Mayor Jeff Hazel beginning within several days of the arrest and the mayor has consistently voiced serious concerns about the allegations.
Mayor Hazel, among others, to ensure the public’s trust, have encouraged Mr. Schulte to resign from the Celina City Council.
As far as the Mercer County Republican Party’s response, I personally contacted Mr. Schulte by phone several days after his arrest and I voiced the party’s concerns over not only his arrest, but more importantly the comments that he allegedly had made.
He was encouraged to make a timely public response in regards to his alleged offenses which he has yet to do.
Our party leadership and I as Chair, question his ability to continue to effectively serve as a city councilman for the City of Celina and feel that his resignation at this time would be appropriate.
Bob Hibner
Chair
Mercer County Republican Party
