Progress - Incentives -TIF’s

I fully support progress, however, if or how that progress is funded using TIF (Tax Increment Financing) or incentives is important.

Projects which have excessive or unreasonable incentive packages costing the taxpayer, or depleting the municiple funds, are projects that I will push back on or not support.

I also feel that our community members should be aware of upcoming projects and have an opportunity to provide comments and concerns.

If a project is in a TIF district then any incentives should be via the TIF reimbursement rules, not cash incentives prior to occupancy or pay as you go in each phase. Cash incentives paid upfront or as you go, make it easier for the developer to leave spaces vacant for a longer time period.

Taxes and Fees

People today are being taxed out of their homes and towns.

While I typically don’t support increases in taxes or fees, I recognize there are times where it is absolutely unavoidable. Additional information is on another page.

I believe before we add or increase taxes or fees that we should explore all other alternatives first.

In addition, if we have to and when we have multiple options we should take the option that most closely covers the needs. We should not be asking for more money than we need.

I will always look at other alternatives, only ask for what is absolutely needed, if it’s absolutely needed, be open and upfront with any unavoidable tax or fee and explain why it’s needed.

EAV’s and Tax Levy’s

Some advice given to government taxing bodies is if they don’t take the maximum allowable tax levy dollars at tax levy time, that it will limit the dollar amount they will be entitled to or be able to get in the future.

If economic times are tight for your constituents, and all of the local government agencies are operating on the theory that “taking the most tax levy possible now principle”, it can create financial hardships for some residents and businesses.

When it’s known that economic conditions are not good, serious considerations should be given to not maximizing the tax levy’s that year, asking for only what you need, and finding ways to minimize any future potential penalties.

Public Safety

Public safety is important!

I fully support our Police and Fire Departments, and the men and women working in these departments.

I support the initiatives needed to keep our village safe.

I volunteer and am a long term member with CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) under the Fire Department and MCPAAA (Mundelein Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association) associated with our Police Department.

Diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion is a fundamental building block to create a strong community where everyone is welcome and works together.