County Board - District 4

Questions & Answers

What is the importance of the County Board to your constituents in Champaign County?

The County Board is important to all of us living in District 4 as it is involved with many aspects of our daily lives. Decisions on tax levies, mental health oversight, the local criminal justice system, water, drainage and many other aspects of our county infrastructure and county services are governed by the County Board.

What is a key policy difference between you and your Opponent?

A key policy difference is our approach to partisan politics in local government. I am not convinced that political parties are effective or necessary in local government . Local government should be about local people coming together to improve their community. As an Independent I will collaborate with all board members to support my district’s interests and for the progress of this county.

The County Board is responsible for a yearly budget of nearly $130 million. How would prioritize this money, and are there any parts of the current budget you would change?

Top priority for the funds is the maintaining of critical currently budgeted services. Investing in technology to maintain adequate information systems is one area I hope we can afford to fund. I do not yet know enough about the details of the budget to make specific recommendations on changes. I would recommend terminating all tax levies associated with the operation of the nursing home, once the nursing home is sold and the current and long-term liabilities of the nursing home have been paid.

Is there anything else you would like to say to an undecided voter in Champaign County?

I would encourage undecided voters to make sure they learn about the candidates and vote. I hope they feel, as I do, that it is time to try to change the tone of local government, end partisan bickering and tackle issues together. During my 40 years in this county I led business development in local hospitals and healthcare systems for 25+ years. I created opportunities for growth by bringing together diverse perspectives to facilitate joint efforts and the development of new services. I hope to bring the skills I gained to issues facing the County.