Pat Mauro: 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: Des PlainesWebsite: NoneOffice sought: Des Plaines Alderman, Ward 8Age: 44Family: Not Married. My parents (retired), brother, sister-in-law and their two kids all live in Des Plaines.Occupation: Owner/Operator of Mauro Sewer Construction for 21 years.Education: High School Graduate; attended Triton College.Civic involvement: Current Member, Des Plaines Economic Development CommissionElected offices held: NoneHave you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: Candidate did not respond.Candidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 The fiscal condition of the city is my number one priority as all city services, programs and operations cannot function properly unless Des Plaines is on solid financial ground. I will support sound fiscal policies that will lower the cost of government, improve city services and reduce the tax burden on residents and businesses.Key Issue 2 Flood control and water management is my second main campaign issue. I will apply over 25 years of experience and expertise in the areas of sewer construction and water management to assure that the city provides the most efficient and effective flood control measures for our community.Key Issue 3 Economic development is my third main campaign issue. I will support sensible economic development that promotes a positive business environment and encourages job creation for both existing businesses and new businesses. In recent years, we have seen Des Plaines over-reach on its implementation of some TIFs to spur economic development. In turn, it has had a negative impact on those areas.Questions Answers How should Des Plaines use its casino revenues? Name your top three priorities.The city should consider utilizing future casino revenues to retire city debt, upgrade infrastructure and fund the Master Water Plan.How should the city approach developing the land surrounding the casino?The Des Plaines casino sits in a unique location as it is landlocked on three sides: The Cook County Forest Preserve to the east, 294 Tollway to the west and the city border to the south. The land to the north of the casino currently has two hotels and several office buildings. If redevelopment of these properties were to be considered it would be my hope that the hospitality industry would be the primary focus based on the proximity to the airport, casino and Rosemont Convention Center.Should the city address the question of ethics surrounding the casino, as regards public officials?I would support an ordinance that would prohibit elected officials from direct employment with the casino during their term in office.What should the city do to improve the performance of its failing tax increment financing districts? Do you see the need for any other TIF districts in the city?Obviously, economic development has taken a huge hit with the downturn in the economy over the last few years. That has limited the ability to generate the needed revenue to properly fuel these TIFs. There needs to be a special priority focus to the TIFs to address their financial stability. I do not see any need for additional TIF districts in Des Plaines. The city already has enough work in front of it with its existing TIFs.What is the most pressing issue for residents in your ward and how would you like to address it?Infrastructure upgrades are the main priority of the 8th Ward including upgrades to our sewer systems, streets, sidewalks, and public fixtures. The city needs to continue its efforts with residents to alleviate the backyard flooding issues that have plagued many ward residents.