Mark E. Walsten: Candidate Profile

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:BioKey IssuesQA Bio City: Des PlainesWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Des Plaines Alderman, Ward 6Age: 53Family: three daughters and a girlfriend.Occupation: Home inspector.Education: U of Iowa.Civic involvement: Chairman ,DEEP GREEN (Des Plaines Environmental and Energy Program).Neighborhood watch block captain.Commissioner, Special Events Commission.Elected offices held: Alderman, 6th Ward, Des Plaines IL.Have you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: No.Candidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Keep taxes down to a minimum.Key Issue 2 Eliminate flooding in Des Plaines.Key Issue 3 Bring new business and jobs to Des Plaines.Questions Answers How should Des Plaines use its casino revenues? Name your top three priorities.Improve infrastructure, eliminate flooding, reduce debt service.How should the city approach developing the land surrounding the casino?The land surrounding the casino is already developed.Should the city address the question of ethics surrounding the casino, as regards public officials?The City of Des Plaines has a ethics ordinance in place that adresses the conduct of elected officials now.What should the city do to improve the performance of its failing tax increment financing districts? Do you see the need for any other TIF districts in the city?Do our best to add more businesses in the TIF districts.I would not rule out a TIF district if it made sound financial sense.What is the most pressing issue for residents in your ward and how would you like to address it?Eliminate flooding by improving infrastructure.