Local optometrist and business owner Dr. Steve Shake has announced he’s running for Daviess County East Commissioner, citing a desire to use his professional background to advocate for economic growth and represent residents at the local level.
Shake, 62, moved to Owensboro in 1992. He worked as an optometrist at the state’s first Walmart optical center before opening Owensboro Family Eye Care in 2002. He said his experiences in building a local business have prepared him to serve the community through the Fiscal Court.
“I want to use my background experience in that to advocate for policies that support local businesses and economic growth,” Shake said. “But I just have a desire to be a public servant and advocate for the needs and interests of Daviess County residents.”
Economic development is at the center of his platform. Shake said he wants to strengthen partnerships with the City and regional organizations, with a particular focus on attracting pharmaceutical manufacturing.
“There’s been a big push to move all manufacturing from China back to the States,” Shake said. “Why can’t we have that in Daviess County? That’s one of my main goals.”
He pointed to billions of dollars in expansion by companies such as Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca as an example of the opportunity for the region. Shake said he has already begun making inquiries with some pharmaceutical companies, emphasizing that “the answer is always ‘no’ unless you ask.”
Other priorities for Shake include workforce development, flood mitigation, job creation, and continued support for the sheriff’s office, fire departments, and utility infrastructure. He said he believes the current Fiscal Court has done a good job and hopes to build on their work.
Shake added that he would keep an open-door approach if elected.
“I think I’m a patient listener and an effective communicator,” he said. “I want to hear the ideas and concerns of Daviess County residents. They can call me anytime, and I welcome emails, texts, and phone calls.”
Shake acknowledged he will likely face multiple challengers in the Republican primary.
Shake said his wife Joanna encouraged him to pursue Fiscal Court rather than state-level office, noting she believed he was better suited to serve at the local level.
“I have a heart for Daviess County,” Shake said. “I want to see it grow and keep on prospering, and I just want to contribute and use my experience and background to make a difference.”
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