David Gauger: 2025 candidate for Fox Lake village board
Bio
Office Sought: Fox Lake village board
City: Fox Lake
Age: 66
Occupation: Retired
Previous offices held: Plan Commission Chairman — Village of Fox Lake; HOA President, Carriage Homes of Fox Ridge
What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the village board respond to it?
Fox Lake needs revitalization of its downtown. The village board needs to work closely with the building and business owners to strengthen the focus of, and follow, the new comprehensive plan that is coming soon.
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?
The village of Fox Lake finances are in good shape. The top priorities for spending will be the continuation of the road improvement projects, maintenance of water delivery and planning for development (infrastructure) in the north region of the village.
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 ongoing road improvement projects. Continuation of the Lakefront Park amenities.
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.
I was a working owner/partner in a medium-size company for 25 years. Five of us made collaborative policies that positively affected our employees, vendors and clients. My leadership style is Democratic or consensus building.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
My background as a teacher, business owner, and 20 years service in the village as plan commission chairman.
What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
Creation of a Downtown Business Owners Association with a village board liaison.