Diane Hewitt: 2022 candidate for Lake County Board District 8

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office sought: Lake County Board District 8

City: Wauconda with a Zion ZIP code

Age: 67

Occupation: Elected to be a voice for District 8

Previous offices held: None

Q&A

Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

With the census followed by reapportionment of the County Districts. I have lost part of my current District 2 and gained part of the old District 8. I am now considered the new District 8 as a minority district.

This change affords me the opportunity to bring my many accomplishments such as voting NO to increase the gas tax, Forest Preserve trail and dog park to the new District 8.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

As the incumbent one of my many contributions is my Forest Preserve Trail from Green Bay Rd east to Lyons Woods Forest Preserve. This was accomplished by making presentations to all effected municipalities, city's and Park Districts for there support and financial help to apply for a Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3 grants. Today the (my) trail brings outdoor enjoyment to the Community.

Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming and how the county should deal with them.

This has given critical experiences in balancing the county budget without effecting the services we provide or raising taxes to our residents in Lake County.

I believe infrastructure is the key to moving Lake County forward. Our continued work with municipalities, state and federal partnerships helps us accomplish larger projects. Always looking to improve, update the Department of Transportation's 2040 plan for the future.

How do you rate the county government on transparency and the public's access to records? If it's adequate, explain why. If you think improvements are needed, delineate them.

I am very excited with the transparency we gave today. The County Board records all meetings and are available to the public to attend and speak

County Board meetings are open to the public and recorded. These recordings are available to the public along with meeting minute, agendas and calendars.

What, if anything, should be done to improve automation and customer service in county offices? What steps should be taken to make that happen?

We have made several improvements with automation over many years including the County Clerk, Recorder of Deeds, Circuit Court Clerk and Sheriff's office. All of these automation improvements are by long range planning and revenue availabilities.

Are automation needs along with other initiatives are continuously under revenue.