Jacob Meding: 2023 candidate for Elmhurst City Council Ward 2
Bio
Town: Elmhurst
Age on Election Day: 32
Occupation: Annual fund director
Employer: Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation
Previous offices held: None
Q&A
Q: What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the city council respond to it?
A: Maintaining city revenues to meet the rising costs of services is Elmhurst's main issue. Continued strategic economic development is the key to enhancing city finances and maintaining strong property values, which helps provide a quality education for our children.
Q: How would you describe the state of your community's finances?
A: Overall, Elmhurst is in a strong financial position; however, some budget areas are strained due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and inflationary pressures.
Q: What should be the three top priorities for spending in your community during the next four years?
A: The three top priorities for spending in our community are an investment in citywide infrastructure, including improving water systems, broadband internet access, roads, and municipal facilities. Ensure that our emergency services are funded to provide the best training, equipment, and performance. Continue and expand citywide economic development initiatives.
Q: Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed? If so, what are they?
A: The city reviews and creates its budget every year. This process allows for careful consideration of spending and allocation of funds. If elected, I plan to be active in this process.
Q: What do you see as the most important infrastructure project the community must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?
A: The city must upgrade its road system to handle 21st-century needs. Designated city and state capital funds will pay for this improvement. As previously stated, the city's budgeting process provides a highly effective prioritization for funding.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your city council.
A: I have experience with strategic planning and group leadership dynamics. I believe in listening to all points of view and being willing to compromise. Government should be transparent and open while providing mutual communication opportunities between elected officials and citizens. Should I be elected, my experiences will allow me to be an effective and team-oriented Alderman.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: My roots are deep within the Elmhurst community. I was raised and educated in Elmhurst, and my wife Annice and I have chosen to make this town our home. My civic and volunteer involvements demonstrate my dedication to this community. I plan to commit time and energy to keeping Elmhurst an economically robust, safe, and vibrant community.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: I want to consider ways to build an expanded community culture through unique civic engagements where all areas of the city come together.