Dale Berman: 2022 candidate for Kane County Board District 2
Bio
Party: Democrat
Office sought: Kane County Board District 2
City: North Aurora
Age: 88
Occupation: Retired - 39 year career in Information Systems Sales & Management
Previous offices held: North Aurora Trustee 14 years - Mayor 16 years
Q&A
Q: Do you support an increase in the countywide retail sales tax to help pay for expenses related to the SAFE T legislation? Yes/No? If yes, which SAFE T-related expenses, specifically, should be covered with the additional tax? If no, how do you suggest paying for the increased expenses related to the SAFE T legislation?
A: Yes. I support the retail sales tax to cover the mandated expenses due to SAFE T-related legislation from our Illinois government.
Q: What should be done to retain county staff? If you propose increases in salaries or benefits, how should those added costs be covered?
A: A study to determine the difference in Kane County salaries to other near by counties and other similar jobs shows that Kane salaries are lower for the same job. Equal salaries are necessary for future employment. There has not been an increase in Kane County taxes for 12 years. Even though I have been retired during that time my SS income has increased and so have all utilities, health care, and all services. You cannot provide the services required and requested by us tax payers without the associated increase in cost and therefore funds to pay for them.
Q: Do you believe the county auditor should be an elected or appointed position? Why? Are there any other countywide offices that are currently elected positions that you believe should be appointed instead? If so, please explain.
A: Elected
Q: The county has seen an increase in truck traffic. How do you propose to address the infrastructure needs that come with this increase in traffic? Do you support a moratorium on warehouse developments in unincorporated areas of the county? Yes/No? Please explain.
A: The economy needs to grow and trucking is the only way to move products with out existing railroad lines. KDOT has plans for the next 10 to 20 years to improve roads for future growth.
Q: What direction do you think the county should move as it relates to its aging buildings? Build new or rehab existing buildings? Why and how would you propose the county pay for any new buildings or improvements?
A: Consolidate all departments in one location and sell off current off site buildings and land.
Q: How do you think the county should spend the remaining COVID-19 relief funds?
A: What funds?
Q: The COVID pandemic also put a spotlight on the need for mental health services. What role should the county play in this?
A: The county needs to support increased mental health services.