Thomas Pawlicki: 2021 candidate for Itasca village president
In the race for Itasca village president, Thomas Pawlicki is challenging incumbent Jeff Pruyn, who is running for a fourth term, in the April 6 election.
The Daily Herald asked the candidates several questions about issues facing the village.
Below are Pawlicki's responses.
In-person early voting is available at DuPage County Fairgrounds Building 5, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. In-person early voting with touch-screen voting begins March 22 at locations throughout the county. Learn more at www.dupageco.org/earlyvoting/.
Bio
City: Itasca
Age: 73
Occupation: Retired investment banker
Civic involvement: Candidate did not respond
Q&A
Q: How do you view your role in confronting the pandemic: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents - even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state and federal authorities?
A: Provide leadership and transparency.
Q: Did your town continue to adequately serve its constituents during the disruptions caused by the pandemic? If so, please cite an example of how it successfully adjusted to providing services. If not, please cite a specific example of what could have been done better.
A: Appears to be OK.
Q: In light of our experiences with COVID-19, what safeguards/guidelines should you put in place to address any future public health crises?
A: No changes are needed.
Q: What cuts can local government make to reduce the burden of the pandemic on taxpayers?
A: TBD
Q: What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what infrastructure project can be put on the back burner?
A: Itasca Downtown revitalization is a priority.
Q: Do you plan to address businesses that don't adhere to the governor's order to close or restrict business?
A: No.
Q: Do you agree or disagree with the stance your board has taken on permitting recreational marijuana sales in the community? What would you change about that stance, if you could?
A: Unaware of any discussions.
Q: Describe your leadership style and explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board or city council.
A: If elected Mayor of Itasca I will bring my business experience to bear, analyzing and optimizing the business functions of Itasca, for Itasca is truly a business, and like any business, it should be run for the benefit and communicated to its shareholders, the citizens of Itasca.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: My business background, ability to lead and open communications with the board and residents.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: To operate Itasca as an open transparent government and involve the village board and residents in a timely manner.