Robert (Bob) Schmidt: 2023 candidate for Schaumburg park board
Bio
Town: Schaumburg
Age on Election Day: 77
Occupation: Retired D54 teacher
Employer: N/A
Previous offices held: Commissioner Schaumburg Park District
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is it?
A: I would like to continue providing healthy programs and activities for our residents and continue to implement our comprehensive master plan is a goal of mine. The CMP was developed with staff and community input. My motivation come from seeing our residents enjoying our programs.
Q: How well is your district rebounding from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic? What new measures should be taken to strengthen programming or better meet the needs of the community?
A: During COVID we had to reduce full time staff by 30% in order to offset lost revenue. We evaluated positions, making decisions that would make the District fiscally responsible. Our programs currently reflect the post COVID needs of our residents. We continually evaluate programs to meet our residents needs. We have added staff as we have rebounded.
Q: How would you describe the state of the district's finances? What challenges do you see on the horizon, and how do you propose to meet them?
A: Our finances have rebounded from COVID without any federal or state assistance. Developing operations that require taxes and fees is a major challenge. Providing information to our residents on new programs is vital to increase attendance.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your park board.
A: I believe working as a team is vital. Listening to all sides of an issue, evaluating the financial implications and needs of our residents helps us make informative decisions.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: My 20 years serving the SPD has enabled me to understand the workings of a park district. I am a good listener. When residents have an issue, I immediately attempt to resolve it.
I work closely with the Village of Schaumburg in developing bike paths, programs and safety issues.