James "Jim" Long: 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: Downers GroveWebsite: http://www.electlong.comOffice sought: DuPage County board District 2Age: Candidate did not respond.Family: Married for 22 years with five childrenOccupation: Executive Director of Proud to be Republican, LLC. An organization that helps Principled Republicans get elected, and Concerned Citizens stay informed.Education: Loyola University Benedictine University - Management/MarketingCivic involvement: DGTRO Precinct Committeeman / Area Chairman Knights of Columbus (Chancellor) 4th Degree Knight (Dooley Assembly) Downers Grove Youth Baseball Manager Downers Grove Park District Soccer / Basketball Coach Downers Grove Nomads Basketball Coach Downers Grove Moose Lodge MemberElected offices held: DGTRO Precinct CommitteemanHave you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NoCandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 To cut the DuPage County budget in a responsible manner that doesn't diminish vital services, such as the State's Attorneys office, Law Protection, Road Maintenance, etc.If there are overlapping departments, or ways to streamline county efforts, I would be in favor of 'cutting the fat' and saving all of us money.Key Issue 2 To make sure DuPage County is taking measures to be both attractive to new businesses while allowing existing businesses thrive.Job creation should be high on everyone's list of importance, and the county government must do all in its power to promote a Pro Job Culture in DuPage.Key Issue 3 To maintain much of the good governance measures that many former County Board Members have established, while bringing my business management experience, marketing expertise, and strong family values to the Board while being an independent voice for those in District 2.Questions Answers Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what?I would not consider myself a single-issue candidate, rather one who is looking out for the best interests of ALL of DuPage County's residents.I am a civically minded person, be it coaching my five children's sports, or volunteering at my church and in the community.I would consider this Public Service position an extension of my history of 'stepping up to the plate' for the benefit of others who cannot.Most of all, I want my children to be able to experience raising a family in DuPage County, if they so choose, and have the same opportunities that I had growing up in Downers Grove.I will do all in my power to make sure DuPage County does not become 'Cook County West', keeping their tactics and politics east of our county line.If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?N/AHow can the county best manage its growth, growing diversity?I think the key to handling growth would be to do all possible to anticipate needs into the future and take reasonable measures that will accommodate an increase in population in a prudent manner.When faced with growing diversity it is always wise to have an open mind to what others can bring to improve our lives, but that it is important that those coming here bear a certain duty to assimilate to DuPage County and America's culture as best as they can.If incumbent, are you satisied your attendance at county board/committee meetings has been adequate? Describe the rough percentage of meetings you've attended. If non-incumbent, are you aware of the incumbent's attandance record and is it adequate?N/AWhat is your stance on county board members' pay? Too high, too low, just right? Would you propose any changes' Do you think county board members should receive pensions' If not, would be willing to pledge not to take one?To be honest, I did not know the benefits of board members were when I decided to run.Not having served, I cannot say that those currently on the board are over or under paid.Until I know the actual work and time involved, I would avoid a definitive answer.That said, being a smaller, limited government person, my impression is that benefits are on the high side, and I find myself on the ?cut? end of most of these debates.