New Antioch mayor highlights his plans for the village

A newcomer to the mayor's seat, but no stranger to Antioch politics, Larry Hanson brings years of experience and ideas for the future of the village.

Hanson, 49, was sworn into office May 4. We asked the new mayor of series of questions detailing his plans going forward.

Here are his responses.

Q. What did you learn from the campaign that you hope to put into action as mayor?

A. I learned that people are hurting and watching their pennies. We, as a village, also need to watch our pennies. I ran on a platform to bring fiscal responsibility back to village government and that's what I intend to do.

Q. What is your vision for Antioch?

A. A community that enjoys controlled growth and where the infighting and petty differences are a thing of the past. We are blessed with a beautiful village and working together we can make it even better.

Q. What will be your first priority as mayor?

A. To attack the financial issues that confront our village and develop programs that will generate revenues. Just like at home, we can't spend more than we bring in. Tough times call for tough decisions and we all need to work together to find the best solutions.

Q. What will be the first initiative, project or proposal you develop?

A. Recall the budget passed at the last board meeting. This budget is not balanced unless we borrow from restricted funds, use funds dedicated to other areas of village operation or spend our reserves to pay day-to-day expenses. The village simply cannot afford to spend more than we are bring in. This budget, as it stands, carries expenditures that are $1.5 million greater than anticipated revenues. It needs to be reworked and should have never been passed.

Q. Is there anything you can do to foster greater unity on the village board? If so, what?

A. Unity can be achieved by involving the entire board in the decision making process. We will not always agree but a transparent and open approach that allows each member to express their thoughts and argue their point of view will lead to better outcomes greater unity.

Q. Name and explain one thing for which you admire your predecessor. But also, what one thing do you want to do better than your predecessor?

A. I admire anyone willing to serve their community and donate their time and energy to help their fellow citizens. My campaign was built around bringing greater fiscal responsibility. These are some of the worst economic conditions our village, state and nation have ever faced. We must tailor a budget that matches expenditures with revenues. I will bring a more conservative approach to village finances.

Q. How will you put your mark on this office?

A. I will put my mark on this office by surrounding myself with intelligent, selfless and hard working people who want to bring more than they take and leave knowing they made a difference and that Antioch is a better place because they were here.