Keith Johns: 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: Island LakeWebsite: http://www.ftpil.orgOffice sought: Island Lake Village Board (4-year Terms)Age: 44Family: Married for 17 years with three children.Occupation: Sales in paving industry for 17 years and Owner/Operator of local snow removal business 13 years.Education: Harper Community College 1987-1988 Culinary Arts courses Blackhawk Community College 1991-1992 Business Management coursesCivic involvement: Volunteer Youth Baseball Coach Volunteer Youth Bowling League Coach Matthews Middle School Tech Crew Parent VolunteerElected offices held: NoneHave you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NoCandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Balance the Village budget by eliminating careless spending.Key Issue 2 Create an open, respectful and professional environment between all Village officials, residents and business owners enabling those to voice their concerns regarding Village issues without fear of retribution.Key Issue 3 Develope a cost effective plan to improve Village of Island Lake's roads and infrastructure.Questions Answers The current administration has been investigating building a new village hall in Water Tower Park. A funding mechanism has not been determined, nor has the board decided if the proposal should become a reality. Should that investigation continue?No. The Village of Island Lake does not have the means to financially support the investigation at this time and should table the project until the budget is balanced.Do you support Police Chief McCorkle and the work he has done or do you believe a new chief is needed?I believe the Police Dept. needs to be thoroughly reviewed and assessed for effectiveness and efficiencies while keeping the safety of residents and businesses in mind.Political bickering, legal battles and other political issues have hurt the morale of village employees and the town's image. What steps would you take to improve Island Lake's image?First, I would strive to create an atmosphere of respect and professionalism among Village employees and officials with the understanding that we all work together to serve the residents and business owners of Island Lake in their best interests.Then, I would reach out to local residents and business owners and encourage their participation in Village matters through open and respectful dialogue. "For The People" believes in transparency in government and the freedom to communicate and be heard by local officials.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?Island Lake residents are concerned about our roadways and infrastructure.Residential streets have not been maintained or repaired cost effectively or efficiently in recent years. Consequently, our roads look terrible and may cost more to repair or replace in the long run. In addition, many residents would like our town "connected" by more sidewalks that are safe pathways for walking and biking. I would like to develope a plan to improve our roadways and make it safer to travel around Island Lake with and without a car.What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?Unfortunately, Island Lake has received too much negative press in recent years. "For The People" will strive to make Island Lake, once again, "A Community of Friendly People" by opening up the lines of communication between residents, business owners and local elected officials.