Becky Hruby: Candidate Profile

Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioKey IssuesQA Bio City: GenevaWebsite: http://beckyhruby.comOffice sought: Geneva AldermanAge: 36Family: Married, one childOccupation: Homemaker and co-owner of Hruby PaintingEducation: Bachelor of Science in Public Relations, Illinois State University, 1996Civic involvement: Volunteer regularly at Harrison Elementary in my son's classroom and the library.English as a second language (ESL) tutor with Literacy Volunteers of the Fox Valley (LVFV).Teacher of religious education and member of ""Commit to Knit"" group at church, which donates shawls, blankets, scarves, etc. to men, women and children in need.Volunteer work with Anderson Animal Shelter.Elected offices held: NAHave you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NACandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Resource allocation--determine where and how investing limited resources will obtain the best results in our struggling economy.Key Issue 2 Finding a balance between historic preservation and redevelopment.Key Issue 3 Retention and growth of existing business, and addition of new business in the entire city. In the Third Ward, I hope to promote further development of the Geneva Industrial Park.Questions Answers What makes you the best candidate for the job?I am honest, think with a balance of intelligence and common sense, and bring no preconceived notions to the position. I view the community I live in as an extension of my family. I want to do what I can to support it. I am eager to listen, learn and promote initiatives that serve the best interest of my ward and the entire city of Geneva. I have a proven ability to accomplish objectives with the city through the Manchester alley project and look forward to addressing concerns for the Third Ward as needed.Given the delicate balance between the need for revenue and over-taxing local businesses, what is your opinion of your community's present level of local sales taxes? Is the tax just right, too low or too high? Explain.As our economy continues to struggle, the line dividing needs from wants will become harder to distinguish. My goal is to separate and define one from the other in an effort to avoid tax increases.Talking with your friends and neighbors, what seems to be their biggest public safety concern? Explain the concern as you see it, and discuss how you think it should be addressed.Lack of sidewalks. Residents on Longview and Foxwood (w/o free bus service) have no sidewalk access half the way to Harrison. Additionally, Jaycee Park is a straight shot off Longview, with no sidewalk to get there. Residents have been warned by the Geneva Police that it isn't safe for kids to ride bikes in the street, but there is no alternative. I think the people who live there should gather and meet with City Hall to discuss what a sidewalk would entail, pros and cons, costs, etc. I feel it is a legitimate concern and on the surface the need seems obvious.In these tight economic times, municipal budgets have to be prioritized. Where, if anywhere, could the current budget be trimmed, and conversely, are there areas the budget does not give enough money to?My job as alderman will be to analyze the effectiveness of existing programs and projects, as well as those proposed. One of the biggest challenges is determining what consumers and businesses are willing to pay for through taxes and what they can do without.What#146;s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?Designate a monthly time (during outdoor weather!) to encourage everyone to step outside and meet their neighbors. Introduce yourself to at least three people or families. As we meet and get to know more people, our sense of community grows. Also, you never know when you'll need a favor or when you may be able to come to someone's rescue! If you are lucky enough to already know all your neighbors, wander over to Geneva East...I'd love to meet you!