Sam Tornatore: 2022 candidate for DuPage County Board District 1
Bio
Party: Republican
Office sought: DuPage County Board District 1
City: Roselle
Age: 73
Occupation: Attorney, Tornatore Law Office
Previous offices held: DuPage County Board member since 2012; Village of Roselle and Bloomingdale TownshipTrustee
Q&A
Q: Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming in the future and how the county should deal with them.
A: The county's surplus of approximately $40 million dollars was recently allocated to needed infrastructure repairs. I believe the chief concern going forward regarding county spending is compliance with the requirements of the SAFE-T Act. Increases in personnel and facilities may reach $60 million in the years to come with no funding from the state.
Q: Is there a specific service or amenity that is lacking in the county? If so, how do you propose to provide and fund it?
A: Most needs have been met with Coronavirus funding and the County has prepared for most eventualities.
Q: Should the county board continue to start its regular board meetings with an invocation? Please say why or why not.
A: Yes. However, I respect those who wish to observe a moment of silence.
Q: Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?
A: Absolutely! I would suggest less partisan actions and more concentration on County business.
Q: If your political party has control of the county board after the November election, how would that benefit DuPage residents?
A: I believe that for generations, Republican control moved the County to great advancements. Obviously, less partisanship would make for better government.
Q: The COVID pandemic put a spotlight on the need for mental health services. What role should the county play in this?
A: The county has been instrumental in funding and supporting the DuPage County Health Department. The need for mental health services is of most importance and the county is committed, along with the heath department in achieving our goals through the HOPE Task Force and the recently enacted 988 hotline.
Q: What is the single most important issue facing your district and how should the county address it?
A: Public safety (and the economy).
We need to support our police and first responders, as well as the municipalities in their obligations to comply with the SAFE-T Act and its requirements.