Candidate Spotlight: Rocky Shanehsaz
Writer / Julie Yates
Photography Provided
The United States is known as the land of opportunity, especially for those that work hard and are determined to succeed. This
Initially locating himself in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Shanehsaz graduated from high school and entered Western Kentucky University. He earned degrees in chemistry and animal science before working as a computer network engineer. After becoming a United States citizen in 1985, he settled in Noblesville where he has lived for the last 33 years.
In 2001, he purchased the historic Model Mill building and spent almost 15 years renovating it into the Mill Top Banquet and Conference Center. Once a flour-grinding mill, it is now listed as an Indiana Historic Landmark. The milling industry was an important part of the area’s economy during the second half of the 1800s, hence the Miller Man being Noblesville High School’s mascot.
“As the owner of a thriving and fun business such as the Mill Top, I feel like I am living the American dream,” Shanehsaz says. “My wife, Terri, and I have two successful children, Abe and Ava. One is a practicing attorney, and the other is studying biomedical engineering at Purdue. We have two grandchildren.”
Over the years, Shanehsaz’s philanthropic efforts have supported area festivals, schools and churches. He has a special heart for law enforcement and drug rehabilitation organizations. He has provided space for, and this year will host, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Chaplaincy Prayer Breakfast. The Hamilton County Jail Tower Program, a career-readiness initiative for jail inmates, has benefitted from funding Shaneshsaz has provided. Currently working to expand Hope and Recovery Centers Inc., he wants to make a real difference for individuals struggling with alcoholism and drug addiction.
This is Shanehsaz’s third run for a seat on the council. He hopes that this time he will be successful. He would like to share his experience, knowledge and business acumen to help guide the city’s preservation and development, as well as continue to give back to the community.
“I lean conservatively and believe strongly in responsible growth, historic preservation and the efficient use of taxpayer dollars. I’m interested in making sure our tax dollars have the most impact in our community.” Shanehsaz says.
“When people see my name they might think, ‘Oh, he’s just some foreigner.’ But that is no longer true. Noblesville is my
3 Comments
I had the honor and the pleasure of meeting Rocky and working with at Mill Top during a wedding photo shoot for my wedding planning business. He is such a nice, caring and respectable man. His work ethic is inspiring and I hope to work with him again in the future.
I’m so glad you are running again. When I became aware of your platform the last time you ran, I couldn’t understand why people didn’t want you on the council to shake things up and loose! I’ll keep voting for you as long as you are running. I truly wish you would run for mayor!
One comment: LOVE this guy!