Nancy Forster: 2023 Candidate for Vernon Hills Village Board

Bio

Town: Vernon Hills

Age on Election Day: 51

Occupation: Development for nonprofit organization

Employer: Family Service Center

Previous offices held: Vernon Hills Village Trustee

Q&A

Q: What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the city council or village board respond to it?

A: Our community is not unique in that health and safety, including mental health concerns, are rising. Schools, businesses, and residents should feel safe. The increase in violence has required the community to be prepared in a way no one thought was necessary years ago. The events of last summer were a rude awakening. The Vernon Hills police, Countryside Fire, village staff, and board members quickly reacted and made hard decisions to ensure our protection.

We installed license plate readers at key intersections in town. These readers help us and our neighboring communities track offenders and have proven to be a valuable security tool.

Mental health continues to be a concern for all ages, as long-term effects of the pandemic are still unknown. We need to evaluate the needs of all age groups, and make sure the resources are in place.

Community violence and contagious outbreaks are impossible to predict, therefore, continuing to be prepared, yet flexible is a priority.

Q: How would you describe the state of your community's finances?

A: The village is strong and stable financially due to the professional and careful management by staff and the board. Our sound budget was critical in providing relief to local restaurants during the unpredictable crisis of the pandemic. It is important to note that the village does not receive any portion of our residents' property tax and our revenue is derived solely from the collections of sales tax from our local retailers and restaurants. The Hawthorn Mall redevelopment will make Vernon Hills an even bigger retail hub and destination and its increased revenue will further support the village's budget.

Q: What should be the three top priorities for spending in your community during the next four years?

A: Community safety including mental health services and programs, Hawthorn Mall redevelopment (which helps us maintain a strong tax revenue stream so we can continue to not take property taxes), and road expansions should be priorities.

Q: Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed? If so, what are they?

A: The village is always looking for ways to reduce spending and that process is ongoing. The RFP (Request for Proposal) bidding process is critical in finding cost efficiencies while also providing quality control with current partners and services. As a Trustee, I have tried to make sure that our spending is used wisely and with the best interest of the Vernon Hills residents. I am never hesitant to question spending and assess whether the benefits and positive outcomes to the village and residents outweigh the cost. Budget cuts are made, when necessary, but the best interest of Vernon Hill is always the priority.

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 widening of Route 45 from Route 21 to Route 83 has been discussed for years. Route 45 is a major road in Vernon Hills and becomes highly congested during the peak hours of after school and during rush hour. Improving this congested road will improve traffic flow and safety in our community. The project is expensive and needs to be kept at the forefront as the village has been waiting for funding from the state. We have the preliminary engineering ready and plan appropriately with new developments along Route 45 as we push the state 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 village board or city council.

A: Prepare, listen, absorb, and then speak. I don't talk to talk. I believe in talking and debating with purpose. I am always prepared with my initial thoughts but remain open for discussion, opinions, and facts before making decisions. In terms of the current board, everyone brings a different perspective to the table in a respectful manner, ensuring a leadership that works well together for the benefit of all Vernon Hills residents. I am proud to be part of that well-functioning governing body and look forward to continuing the plans we have set forth for the future of Vernon Hills.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?

A: I have been a Trustee for 2 ½ years, and I believe I bring a unique and valuable perspective to the board. My family has lived in Vernon Hills for 19+ years. My children have gone through the entire school system and my kids, and I have been employed by our local businesses. I have been an active volunteer with the schools and youth activities. My service as a Trustee has built upon my community activities and has allowed me to further my commitment to Vernon Hills. My 23+ years in marketing and my 7+ years in the nonprofit community and the mental health sector have provided me with invaluable experience to support our businesses and the well-being of our community. I always use the perspective of a parent and resident of the community when making decisions for Vernon Hills.

Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

A: I believe we need to look for ways to get more members of the community actively involved. My children and I recently attended the 10-week Citizen's Police Academy class which provides hands on knowledge of law enforcement, specifically in Vernon Hills. The program is extremely enlightening, and I encourage residents to participate. After completing the class, I wondered if a similar program could be developed for residents to learn more about how the Board of Trustees works in conjunction with the Village Staff, Police, Countryside Fire Department, and Public Works to determine the best policies in Vernon Hills. This would provide more background than just attending a board meeting. Additionally, the creation of a high school junior board or small sub committees of community members could be created to allow residents the opportunity to provide more input in Vernon Hills and its future. Perhaps this type of program will foster a young adult's interest in government and service.