Jose S. Martinez: 2025 candidate for Antioch village board
Bio
Office sought: Antioch village board (Vote for 3)
City: Antioch
Age: 45
Occupation: Railroad conductor
Previous offices held: Appointed member of Antioch Planning and Zoning Commission
What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the village board respond to it?
The key is finding a balance between thought-out development while maintaining our unique small-town charm. We also find that while residents may choose to move over the border, we need to give them a good reason to stay. I find that focusing on preserving the village’s community spirit and history builds our village in desirability. We want to encourage positive economic growth to fund our public services that nurtures Antioch for the future.
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?
We are fortunate in our finances to operate with a balanced budget and maintain a healthy surplus. Antioch’s priorities for spending should revolve around continuing to beautify the downtown, improving our current parks, and strengthening our community services. If there was an economic downturn, areas of spending that need to be curtailed would be to reanalyze plans in renovating a new site proposal for the village hall.
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?
Antioch must look forward with the needs of adding, repairing or replacement of our sidewalks and crosswalks. Not only do we have pedestrian traffic in our downtown, it also radiates into residential areas with school-age children that walk to school, and those who like to walk to downtown for annual events.
Looking into sources of state-funded programs for assistance, but sales tax remains the main source of village revenue. Again, during uncertain economic times, the village should reevaluate the proposed renovation and move of the village hall.
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.
Currently, I sit on the village zoning and planning commission where it serves as an advisory role to the village board. I find that my style is to listen, ask detailed questions and to make an informed decision. In the end, your decision is to serve in the best interests of the residents of Antioch.
Effectiveness comes from critical thinking, when you look at a decision from all directions, including the human aspect, then you move forward.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
In being a public servant for the last 25 years as a commuter railroad conductor, I find my strongest qualities revolve around being a great communicator as well as a natural people person. I hold my responsibilities to the highest regard and find I am detail orientated with a passion for improving my community through service.
I strive to be politically aware particularly of issues affecting local and state government, something I was first introduced to as a union officer. I have held leadership roles within my company, as well as in outside organizations.
What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
Currently there is a low-cost ride program sponsored by PACE called “Ride Lake County” that is open to seniors 60 and over and those with disabilities that are in need of curb-to-curb ride service. I would like to explore options that help extend the program within Antioch, that also partners with the Antioch Township senior services.