Fiscal responsibility is a term that we often hear, but what does it really mean? In my opinion, it means being thoughtful and careful in how tax dollars are spent to achieve the best outcomes for the community as a whole. This does not imply financing individual interests or "quick fixes" at the expense of taxpayers. Officeholders have a responsibility to address excessive spending and make difficult decisions, just as families do when living within a budget. As a College of DuPage Trustee, I have demonstrated this and will continue to be responsible with your tax dollars as a DuPage County Board member. I will ensure that DuPage County exercises sensible spending as part of decision-making without sacrificing services. In cases that require additional funding, I will first seek reallocation of funds and resources before looking to taxpayers for a solution.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Illinois' unemployment rate was tied for 3rd worst in the nation at 3.9%. DuPage County was as high as 4.0% in August 2023 but dropped to 3.5% in January 2024.
While DuPage County does better than most counties in Illinois, job growth is essential for a community's well-being. It fosters economic prosperity by bringing in revenue and increasing the tax base. This allows the community to invest in crucial areas like infrastructure, education, and social programs. More jobs also empower residents, improving their standard of living and reducing poverty.
DuPage County needs to be committed to prioritizing initiatives that stimulate economic development, attract investment, and create employment opportunities for all residents. By focusing on job growth, we will not only strengthen our local economy but also enhance the quality of life for every member of our community. Together, let's invest in our future by prioritizing job creation and ensuring prosperity for generations to come.
DuPage County, like many other communities in the country, is witnessing a rise in crime rates. Burglaries, carjackings, and assaults have increased, impacting many individuals and families. Safety is a pressing concern for all of us, regardless of our background or political affiliation.
As a vigilant and caring mother, neighbor, and friend, I understand the importance of community engagement and support. When my neighborhood was targeted by a burglary spree, and there was no media coverage or community resources available to inform the residents, I took it upon myself to visit over 300 homes personally. I provided them with the latest information and tips to help them take additional precautions and avoid becoming the next victim. If elected as a DuPage County Board Member, I will prioritize working with our local law enforcement officials, including the Sheriff and State’s Attorney, to ensure the effective and efficient management of crime and safety issues in our community.
Preserving our county's natural resources is not just a responsibility; it's our legacy to future generations. As stewards of the land, we recognize the urgent need to safeguard our environment against threats like pollution, overdevelopment, and neglect. I am dedicated to prioritizing the protection of our county's natural habitats, waterways, and green spaces. By promoting sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and responsible land management, we can ensure that our ecosystems remain vibrant and resilient for years to come. Let's commit to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our county, safeguarding our natural heritage for the benefit of all who call it home.
I have always felt a strong urge to serve others. My compassion for those who struggle in our community has motivated me to run for elected office. This drive to care for and help others was further strengthened when one of my children was born with neurological damage and life-long disabilities.
I believe that everyone, regardless of their challenges - whether due to physical disabilities, mental illness, poverty, or any other issue - deserves the necessary resources to meet their basic needs. This does not only mean funding, but also tools, education, and time to help. In my opinion, the key to a community's success is lifting each other up and working together.
I believe that a good leader should prioritize listening to others. That being said, I would like to hear from you and learn about the ways in which the leadership of DuPage County can improve your daily life. It is important for me to understand what is working in our community and what is not. Community safety, wise use of tax dollars, and meeting the needs of vulnerable members of our community are all rising concerns that I would like to address. You can reach out to me by sending me a note via this website. I promise you that, with your support, if I am fortunate enough to be elected as one of your representatives, I will always remember that I am working for you!
Image contributions for Fiscal Responsibility, Job Growth, What are Your Priorities, Natural Resources, and Our Most Vulnerable were created with Adobe Firefly Generative AI. The Community Safety Image Contribution is by Inventorchris. It was modified by cropping. It is used under the Creative Commons 2.0 license as allowed by the author.
Data for unemployment was obtained from DuPage County, IL Unemployment Rate Insights | YCharts. (2024). Retrieved March 27, 2024, from https://ycharts.com/indicators/dupage_county_il_unemployment_rate