Meet Mike Castellon

Michael Castellon is the current St. Joseph County Assessor, serving the citizens of South Bend, Mishawaka and St. Joseph County with integrity, openness, and a strong commitment to public service. He is seeking re-election this fall to continue modernizing the Assessor’s Office and delivering accurate, accessible, and accountable government. 

Michael’s administration has emphasized education, clear communication, technology modernization, and stronger community outreach. When he first took office, he was the only employee in the department with the Indiana Level 3 Assessor/Appraiser Certification. Today, under his leadership, every member of the 32-person staff either holds or is actively pursuing this certification—including five new team members replacing recent retirements or relocations—ensuring professionalism, consistency, and the highest standards of service for taxpayers.

Michael began his public service career as Penn Township Assessor in 2011, serving three full terms. In 2018, he was elected President of the Indiana Township Assessor Association. In 2022, he was elected St. Joseph County Assessor, becoming the first Republican to hold the office. In 2024, he was elected President of the Northwest District Assessor Association, further demonstrating the respect he has earned among his peers statewide.

A strong believer in open government, Michael holds multiple town hall meetings throughout the county each year. He believes citizens must have direct access to their elected officials and works hard to ensure accountability and responsiveness in his office.

Before entering public office, Michael proudly served in the United States Navy Seabees from 1990 to 2010. During his military career, he served with the Diplomatic Security Office at U.S. embassies around the world and worked as a Master Training Specialist at the Community College of the Air Force. His military service instilled in him the values of discipline, leadership, and service that continue to guide his work today.

Michael holds multiple degrees, including a bachelor’s degree in occupational education from Wayland Baptist University. He is married to his wife, Heather, and together they have five children and grandchildren. Family, faith, and community remain central to his life and public service.

Michael Castellon is committed to continuing his work to provide fair assessments, modern technology, professional staff, and transparent service for every taxpayer in St. Joseph County.