Richard Balla Jr.: 2021 candidate for St. Charles City Council 1st Ward Alderman
In the April 6 consolidated election, newcomer Richard Balla Jr. is challenging incumbent Ronald Silkaitis for a four-year term as St. Charles 1st Ward Alderman.
The Daily Herald asked the candidates several questions about issues facing the city.
Below are Balla's responses.
In-person early voting begins March 10 only at the Kane County Clerk's Office, 719 S. Batavia Ave., Bldg. B, in Geneva and the Aurora satellite office, 5 E. Downer Place, Suite F. In-person early voting at locations throughout the county begins March 22. Learn more at www.kanecountyclerk.org/Elections.
Bio
Town: St. Charles
Age: 50
Occupation: VP Accounting, Tour Edge Golf Mfg., Inc.
Civic involvement: None, but I would like to start to get involved. People who know me know I am a nice person who thinks clearly and makes wise decisions after learning all the facts.
Q&A
Q: How do you view your role in confronting the pandemic: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents - even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state and federal authorities?
A: Defer to state and federal authorities.
Q: Did your town continue to adequately serve its constituents during the disruptions caused by the pandemic? If so, please cite an example of how it successfully adjusted to providing services. If not, please cite a specific example of what could have been done better.
A: Relaying the facts of the situation good or bad on a consistent basis. Some media/people only said when things are getting bad, they should also post the positives, and allow people to make their own decisions that they feel comfortable with.
Q: In light of our experiences with COVID-19, what safeguards/guidelines should you put in place to address any future public health crises?
A: Be careful when out in public and know your surroundings. Social distance in unfamiliar situations.
Q: What cuts can local government make to reduce the burden of the pandemic on taxpayers?
A: Cut unnecessary spending.
Q: What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what infrastructure project can be put on the back burner?
A: Finish the First Street development (Manor location), we saw how popular that was last summer and it can really drive business to downtown St. Charles.
Q: Do you agree or disagree with the stance your board/council has taken on permitting recreational marijuana sales in the community? What would you change about that stance, if you could?
A: Agree, nothing could change my mind, it brings in tax revenue.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: Redevelopment of the old police station.