John ‘Jack’ K. Collins: 2024 candidate for McHenry County Board District 2

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office Sought: McHenry County Board District 2

City: Crystal Lake

Age: 62

Occupation: Business Owner

Previous offices held: McHenry County Board District 2

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?

I am running for office because I believe in working to build a better McHenry County instead of spending time on partisian issues that fail to move the county forward. I will be focused on the Randall Road project, the opioid crisis and the county's finances.

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?

N/A

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.

Past boards have been focused on no tax increases, instead of effectively managing the county's financial resources. The effective use of bonds for infrastructure projects and capital equipment can free up funds for short term issues and reduce the need for tax increases.

Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?

Absolutely yes. While many of the issues the board deals with are bipartisan, There are some members who introduce purely political messaging issues meant to inflame division. My goal will be to work to develop a bipartisan coalition that will focus on the issues necessary to move McHenry County forward.

What role should the county play in combating the opioid crisis?

The county has an important role in battling the crisis. It needs to coordinate the actions of local authorities to ensure that resources are being used wisely.

What role should the county play in increasing affordable housing in the region?

Zoning plays an important role in affordable housing. While the county can't dictate to local communities what should be built it should encourage the building of affordable housing as a means to ensure the necessary population to support growth.