Dale Berman: 2024 candidate for Kane County Board District 2
Bio
Party: Democrat
Office Sought: Kane County Board District 2
City: North Aurora
Age: 90
Occupation: Retired
Previous offices held: Kane Co. Board District 2 from 2020 to present, North Aurora Village Trustee 1977-85, 2003-09, North Aurora Village President 1985-89, 2009-21.
Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what?
There is not a particular issue that motivates me. I have devoted my 62 years in Kane County to my community as an active member of the Jaycees, Lions Club — 54 year member, North Aurora Planning Commission — Chairman, Zoning Board, Police Commission — Chairman, Village Trustee & Mayor — 30 years.
My motivation to serve also includes my participation in other organizations — Fox Valley Park District board, Provena Mercy Hospital Foundation board, Waubonsee Community College Foundation board, NIU Alumni board, and Union Congregational Church — Living Hope Church
If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?
As chairman of the finance and budget committee I am proud of the four years of balanced budgets we have presented to the county board for approval. Thanks to the cooperation of departments and elected offices making it possible.
Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming in the future and how the county should deal with them.
We have provided a balanced budget for four years because we have used Reserved Funds.
The county has not had an increase in property tax in a decade. Most other taxing districts take advantage of the cost of living increase offered by Property Tax Extension Limitation in the collar counties.
Our reserve funds will be used in two years and additional revenue will be needed. One method for new revenue can be presented to voters for a sale tax increase for everyone shopping in Kane County.
Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?
I do not feel that partisanship is a problem for the county board. Every board member is elected to represent their district and the citizens of the county. Each member has the opportunity and obligation to educate themselves on every topic presented to us. Each committee gets detailed data on every subject and can determine how to vote in the best interest of all citizens.
What role should the county play in combating the opioid crisis?
I feel that Kane County is doing a good job in addressing the opioid crisis.
What role should the county play in increasing affordable housing in the region?
The county should support all efforts to increase affordable housing.
Most affordable housing is the responsibility of municipal government subject to their zoning etc. We should encourage all effort to expand affordable housing.