W. Thoreson Saline: 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:BioQA Bio City: WheatonWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Wheaton City Council East District (4-year Term)Age: 48Family: Married: 19 years, 2 sons.Occupation: Program Manager for Department of Probation and Court Services in DuPage County.Education: BA Psychology from Univ. of Georgia, Athens M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, ILCivic involvement: Cub Scouts Creating Opportunities to Achieve Change (COACH Program) Volunteer with homeless shelter thru churchElected offices held: Wheaton City Council (interim) by appointment Jan - April 2013Have you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: No.Questions Answers What makes you the best candidate for the job?Many high achieving, high capacity, and accomplished people who love their families and community call the east district home. A number of them would be really fine council members. My strengths to the council are rooted in my experience as a fiduciary officer, relationship and program manager.Given the delicate balance between the need for revenue and over-taxing local businesses, what is your opinion of your community's present level of local sales taxes? Is the tax just right, too low or too high? Explain.The sales tax does not need to be increased. The city's financial status is strong (as measured by its bond rating) and its essential services and functions are maintained. The question before the city and businesses now is, "how do we get a guy like Thor and other residents to come to our stores and buy more of our services?"Talking with your friends and neighbors, what seems to be their biggest public safety concern? Explain the concern as you see it, and discuss how you think it should be addressed.A big concern for parents in the east district is reckless driving (speed and cell phone usage) by commuters, especially in the morning when kids are going to school. For example, the Lowell Elementary crossing guard on President Street has had several close calls this year. And families on Blanchard Street are posting signs saying slow down.In these tight economic times, municipal budgets have to be prioritized. Where, if anywhere, could the current budget be trimmed, and conversely, are there areas the budget does not give enough money to?The city manager and supervisors made difficult decisions over the past several budgets including laying off employees. While essential functions and services are staffed and resourced non-essential services and budget items are under-funded. I anticipate the upcoming budget review to highlight these details.What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?Candidate did not respond.