Q&A with Wilke

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?

To bring back to the district county funds and services proportionate to the amount of tax dollars leaving this district. I would like to find and eliminate redundant services within the county.

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.

Taxpayers' rights to representation and accessibility to elected officials.

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?

We should keep our promises but in the event that the board cannot come to an agreement, I think the question should be placed on the next ballot. In the end county courses should pay for themselves.

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?

At this time I think we are nearing the end of the taxpayers' goodwill on this issue; however, we should do what they ask of us. I do think that we should be more forthcoming with our ultimate goals, present position, amount of money spent in the last 20 years and the amount to be spent to reach these goals. This will give some perspective so that voters can make an informed decision based on all the facts. Personally I would like to see this level of commitment from the board on road construction and job creation.

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

I would like to see the Des Plaines chain of preserves expanded for two reasons: 1) because the high water table along the river makes it an ecologically sensitive area; and 2) to help alleviate flooding.

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?

No, there is no benefit to the taxpayers to pay for two complete part-time board salaries; we could hire experts in the field for less than the cost of yet another board and give the taxpayers a better return on the their government investment.

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

I believe construction the 120 bypass should start immediately, additionally the Route 45 and Route 83 widening.

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

Traffic;

Road construction;

Property taxes;

Home foreclosures.