Q&A with Hewitt

1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is that? What will be your main priority in office?

The incumbent for District 2 has missed 1/3rd of his scheduled meetings and continuously voted for any type of development with no regard for open space, wetland protection, wildlife or environmental issues. This has endangered the quality of life for the residents and does not reflect the opinion of the voters.

I believe we have a right to expect our commissioner to attend scheduled meetings to provide us with equal representation and availability.

2. For incumbents and non-incumbents:

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.

As a member of the Lake County Board, I would work to expand areas of intergovernmental cooperation aimed at reducing duplication of services and cutting governmental inefficiencies. I believe that the county board must aggressively direct smart-controlled growth polices that will protect our environment and allow for local communities to develop smart growth policies that promote sound economic development and job creation/retention.

3. Should a new golf course be built at the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve? Why or why not? If so, what type of course should be built? If not, what about the promise to residents and the Army?

Yes. This was part of the agreement made by the forest preserve when they received the property. If the cost of this project is higher than originally expected, the board members should reconsider their elaborate specifications for a club house and be more realistic with current economic times.

4. In November, Lake County residents will be asked to approve a $185 million plan that will raise money for land purchases and development. Is this the right economic time to make such a request? Why or why not?

No. I feel the economy is the major concern facing the residents of Lake County today. The forest preserve has the unique opportunity to ease the burden of taxpayers and set an example to other taxing bodies. I also believe the county should purchase land to preserve it for future generations whenever we can. I do not agree with the development policies currently practiced by the forest preserve members.

5. If that proposal passes, where (geographically) would the forest board focus its immediate energies and money? Why?

The forest preserve should purchase property where and whenever possible. By preserving property we are protecting our environment, controlling growth, decreasing local flooding and naturally filtering surface water.

6. Within the next few years, Lake County will have a large enough population to allow the forest board to split off from the county board and become its own agency. Should it do so? Why or why not?

There is not enough factual information available at this time for me to answer this question.

7. Are there additional steps, besides those already under way, that the county board can or should take to provide traffic congestion relief?

Intergovernmental cooperation with all municipalities.

8. What is the most pressing county board-related issue in your district?

The economy and traffic congestion.