Scott A. "Pillow" Andresen: Candidate Profile

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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:BioQA Bio City: East DundeeWebsite: www.andresenlawfirm.comTwitter: @scottandresenFacebook: TBDOffice sought: East Dundee Village Board Age: 44Family: Mother only; Father passed away 1/22/12Occupation: Attorney/ Professor/ EntrepreneurEducation: Dundee-Crown H.S. University of Illinois, Urbana (BS)Valparaiso U. School of Law (JD)University of Phoenix (MBA)Civic involvement: Founder- Gord Being Gord, NFP, a recognized 501(c)(3) charity that raises money for worthy causes in the memory of Gordy Andresen.Board Member- Dundee-Crown Athletic Hall of FameBoard Member- Village Green of East Dundee Board of OwnersFrequent Volunteer for multiple charities and causesElected offices held: NoneQuestions Answers Many municipalities are met with the challenge of maintaining steady revenue streams while trying to lower the tax burden on businesses and property owners. How has the village handled that balancing act so far, and how would you improve/maintain that situation?I believe that preliminary efforts by the current Board are yielding some positive results, but that much more can and should be done. The Village must embrace and support local businesses and actively recruit new businesses to come to our Village. Not only does this increase revenue streams for infrastructure improvements and otherwise, but it also makes for a more vibrant and enjoyable community for its residents.The village in recent years has taken some significant steps in terms of economic activity. What, if anything, is currently lacking in the village's economic portfolio, and how do you envision your community developing economically over the next four years?I see the development of the Depot District, be it as a "culinary district" or otherwise, being a key focus. However, there are several other areas- especially at the intersection of 72 and 25- that need immediate attention and results...which I believe can and will happen.Describe your ideas for improving or developing the downtown. What steps can the village take to support the downtown businesses and bring more people to the area?We need to actively seek out and recruit unique businesses (e.g., restaurants, boutiques, etc.) and events (e.g., Wine Down Wednesday, Heritage Fest, etc.) that will make East Dundee's downtown a destination for locals and residents of the Fox Valley alike. We also need to work hand-in-hand with investors who are willing to devote their valuable financial resources towards developing our community.Where in the village's budget, if anywhere, could expenses be trimmed? And on the other hand, should the budget allot more money toward any particular area, service or village department?I believe that there needs to be an ongoing review of the permanent staff of East Dundee to determine their income versus their roles and achievements. If three people are doing the job that two people can and should be handling, that extra person can either be re-assigned or dismissed. Further to that end, we need to ensure that hired personnel have the background and experience necessary to effectively accomplish the objectives for which they were hired.What is one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?More must be done with the East Dundee riverfront from 72 to the Carpentersville line. I believe that there are tourism possibilities that are being foregone in favor of other initiatives. Further, our Village needs to bring unique businesses to town that become "destinations" and encourage more people to come to our community.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?We need to support our local businesses and integrate them into the overall plan for the growth and marketing/branding of our Village. These people invest their resources of time, effort and money and deserve a seat at the proverbial table. I also want to make sure that we are doing whatever we can for senior citizens as they are also a key component of what makes our Village great.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Josh Whitman, Athletic Director at the University of Illinois. He rolled up his sleeves and began making positive changes on Day 1What is the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?Despite the difficulties or personal consequences, always do the right thing and be honest and forthright with people at all timesIf life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I have few regrets in my life, but I wish I had even one more day with my dad before he passed away.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?History: those who don't learn from the past are doomed to repeat it. We must learn from our mistakes and missteps to avoid repeating themIf you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?Be a good person. Treat others the way you would be treated. Your reputation and integrity are your most valuable assets in life.