David Fahrner: 2025 candidate for Round Lake Park village board

Bio

Office Sought: Round Lake Park village board

City: Round Lake Park

Age: 71

Occupation: Retired

Previous offices held: None

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

Helping residents finding resources they need as we see reductions in funding by the U.S. government. The village board will be active in rooting out those resources and will aggressively pursue grants that addresses our residents needs.

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?

Our finances are solid as we have fully caught up on our pension obligations. In addition, we are building reserves to handle any unexpected expenses. Our spending priorities include updating sewer lines and repaving streets.

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?

The painting of the water tower will be on the back burner for now. Our old sewer lines need to be replaced, as well as investing in our downtown businesses facade program to attract more people to shop local. Festival spending will be reviewed and cut back if needed.

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 village board.

During my business career I was very involved in developing policies and procedures as a part of the management group. I believe strongly in a collaborative approach to issues and opportunities in government, ensuring high quality decisions that address the needs of Round Lake Park residents.

I will be totally transparent in how I reach my decisions which will bring the best possible outcomes for Round Lake Park.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I have extensive experience in business for over 45 years. I will use that experience to help make Round Lake Park a great place to live.

In addition to my business experience, I am community focused as I work with the Lake County Coalition for the Homeless, The March of Dimes, and as a foster parent with Catholic Charities. I have organized food trucks to come into our neighborhood, bringing together our community. I look forward to doing the same thing as a trustee.

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

We need to update the website to make it easier for residents to find the information they need, such as when a building permit is required or the cost of a building permit. The website hasn't been updated for over four years.