Adam Park: 2025 candidate for Elmhurst City Council Ward 5

Bio

Office sought: Elmhurst City Council Ward 5

City: Elmhurst

Age: 53

Occupation: Health care financial executive

Previous offices held: None

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

Elmhurst is thriving. To help make sure it continues to thrive, I would focus on:

Managing Expenses — Despite the city’s share being only 7% of our overall property taxes, any increase by the city has consequences. Nobody likes a higher tax bill. When we have real issues that need to be addressed, I would focus on supporting our business districts so we can generate additional revenue through sales tax. This would minimize the financial burden on the residents of the 5th Ward, especially those on a fixed income.

Safety — Smartasset.com recently ranked Elmhurst the 8th safest suburb in the country. Our police department keeps us safe from crime. Our traffic mitigation and sidewalks keep our families safe as we walk to school or ride a bike. Our water infrastructure keeps us safe from disease and flooding. Safety is the most important service Elmhurst can provide for its residents.

Property Values — For most of us, our home is our largest investment. Elmhurst is blessed with a multitude of assets: stable local businesses, lovely parks and green spaces, and excellent schools. Strategic investment in our community will enrich the value of every home in Elmhurst.

How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?

Elmhurst’s finances are in great shape. As a result, the city’s bond rating is AAA, which allows us access to some of the lowest interest rates available. A new police station and water system maintenance are two expensive issues on the horizon. All spending needs to be scrutinized, and every alternative source of funding needs to be explored before property taxes are increased.

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?

In addition to the items mentioned above, traffic mitigation and improved bike and walking routes to our schools and parks. Much of these infrastructure improvements could be done without any special financial considerations and are an opportunity to have some productive intergovernmental cooperation between the city, the park district, and District 205.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your city council.

I love to pull out a whiteboard and brainstorm. Some of my best results with a team came from what originally seemed like an impossible idea. I also like to take the time to figure out what is the desired outcome and work backwards to develop an action plan. In city council, I would always start with what my constituents want, and represent their voices as I collaborate with the other Alderpeople.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I am running because I want to give back to the community that we all love — helping Elmhurst create strategies and policies that are based on sound financial analysis and prioritize long-term stability.

My wife, Tina, is stepping down after serving the 5th Ward of Elmhurst as Alderwoman for 8 years. I’ve seen firsthand the dedication it takes to represent our community effectively. I will serve the residents of the 5th Ward by being a committed listener to concerns and strong advocate in city affairs.

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

I think a lot could be done to alleviate some of the traffic issues, particularly on St. Charles Road. Small things like reflectors in the pavement to help cars stay in their lanes or big things like a tunnel to allow pedestrians to cross between York and the stadium. I have a million ideas. You should see my whiteboard!

However, I am not running to push my ideas. I am running to hear and share the ideas of my neighbors in the 5th Ward. It would be my honor to represent you as Alderman of the 5th Ward of Elmhurst in city council.