Robert C. Greer: 2025 candidate for Winfield village board

Bio

Office sought: Winfield village board (Vote for 3)

City: Winfield

Age: 71

Occupation: University professor

Previous offices held: Winfield Village Trustee from 2015-19; appointed 2020-21.

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

The Tax Increment Finance District (TIF2) is the most serious issue facing Winfield, and I believe that it should be rejected.

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?

Due to the stewardship of the previous village president, Erik Spande, the overall finances are in good condition. Top priorities are roads, police, and infrastructure, e.g., water and sewer.

Curtailment should be the water fund by charging less to residents. It currently has 275% in reserves, and it requires only 25-50% in reserves. These current percentages are in the extreme and need to be reduced. Those culpable for this amount of overcharging the residents are the current president and trustees.

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?

Reducing the water rates is the most important issue, given that the village has one of the highest water usage rates in DuPage County, as described as the above question. These are excessively high water rates and must be reduced.

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 previous member of the village board for one and a half terms. I worked under the presidency of Erik Spande. I have a collaborative negotiating style and look forward to serving under Marianne Brusse.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Prior experience and collaborative decision-making skills.

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

Lowering water rates.