Local Politics
Bio
Office Sought: Glendale Heights village president
City: Glendale Heights
Age: 60
Occupation: Frame tech
Previous offices held: Glendale Heights District 3 Trustee since 2011
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? Also, what makes you the best candidate for the position?
I am running for village president to continue my efforts in making Glendale Heights the best it can be. I believe my residency of the past 58 years and my current connection with the community puts me above my opponents.
I have served as District 3 Trustee for the past 14 years and I have the proven leadership skills, knowledge and passion to lead Glendale Heights into the future.
I enjoy listening to and helping residents resolve concerns and issues they may have. I strive to continue to bring new exciting programs, services and family friendly events to truly make our community stronger.
I am genuinely committed to the residents and my motivation is driven by my dedication to make a significant positive impact on the residents.
What is the most serious issue your community will face in coming years and how should leaders respond to it?
The future holds many different unknown challenges and we as leaders, must adapt to those challenges as they appear or arise. One of the biggest issues we face right now is economic growth. Strong economic development will ensure a financially stable village.
One of my goals, is to bring new and exciting businesses to Glendale Heights. Bringing a mixture of dining, shopping and entertainment into Glendale Heights will increase economic growth by cultivating a lively local economy and enhance the quality of life.
These establishments will encourage residents to utilize local businesses while attracting neighboring communities to visit Glendale Heights, which will ultimately increase foot traffic and contribute to local tax revenue.
How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?
Solid! The village’s General Fund Balance Reserves remain strong and exceed the level recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).
Improving infrastructure remains a top priority for me. Over the past several years, the village has received over $6.8 million in grants for improvements to facilities, parks and infrastructure. Securing grants is crucial to maintain a proactive and strategic approach to expand on these improvements.
Curtailing of spending is an ongoing priority. The constant evaluation of village finances is important. My goal is to keep taxes as low as possible without jeopardizing services and the quality of life. We need to be diligent and work smart, spend wisely and to seek out our best options.
What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?
Flooding and stormwater management is another top priority. Effective stormwater improvements will help control the flow and quality of runoff, reduce the risk of flooding, property damage, erosion, and water pollution.
Properly budgeting for projects is crucial and it is imperative that we search, apply for and secure grant funding. Project bidding is a strategic approach to ensure competitive pricing and quality service. This process not only encourages fair competition among contractors but also provides transparency and accountability.
The village’s finances remain strong and at this point in time, I don’t see the need to put a hold on any budgeted projects. All projects are assessed and properly budgeted for.
Describe your leadership style and explain how you think it will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.
My leadership style is a collaborative effort with residents, staff and fellow board members. Open communication, listening, researching and understanding the needs of the community is important in the decision-making processes.
I believe that residents, board members and staff should be valued and heard. This approach builds trust and encourages innovative solutions, where we can collectively address multifaceted challenges.
What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
Over the past 14 years, I have actively pursued economic development. Some of my ideas include expanding the footprint of Glendale Heights. The village may have the opportunity to obtain additional land off North Avenue which would increase revenue generating properties.
Another goal of mine is to re-envision and encourage the growth of new businesses by redeveloping existing properties on Army Trail Road, as well as throughout the village. These improvements will unlock new revenue streams and opens the door to unexplored opportunities.
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