Ron Ford: 2022 candidate for Kane County Board District 6
Bio
Party: Democratic
Office sought: Kane County Board District 6
City: Aurora
Age: 63
Occupation: Semi-retired; also have my own GC (general contractor) business
Previous offices held: Kane County Board, 2008-2015; appointed to fill vacancy in April to November 2018; reelected in 2020.
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? 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: No.
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: Increase salaries. Wait for 3rd quarter financial reports to see where the county stands. A lot of the times things increase. Use what we need in the reserves for now.
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, then they do not answer to any particular person. Independent.
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? Please explain.
A: No, we need to look at having portable scales and required inspections on trucks.
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: Build a new facility where we are under 1 or 2 roof structures at the most. They will meet all handicap access abilities, modern codes and technology. There are many ways to pay for municipal buildings. One is by bonds, another there are companies that will build the buildings and you pay a yearly fee.
Q: How do you think the county should spend the remaining COVID-19 relief funds?
A: Use what we can or allowed for the county government. Use what is possible for not-for-profits.
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 lead. Help with unified funding and services.