Q&A with Wedig
1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what? What will be your main priority?
I am running for McHenry County Board because I believe that the county is in a critical stage in its development. There is still plenty of open space and agricultural land available, but once these open spaces are developed, they are gone for good. It is best to approach land use decisions deliberately, considering that development of these open spaces requires more infrastructure and increased service costs. An economically and environmentally sustainable community will only result from innovative approaches to development. People need housing options other than low-density single-family home subdivisions. I will bring transparency to county government. The total compensation of all elected and appointed officials should be made available on the county Web site. Freedom of Information Act requests should also be posted. Every effort should be made to encourage public participation in, and knowledge of, county actions. I will bring a long-term perspective to decision making.
2. For incumbents and non-incumbents. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.
I am a fiscal conservative. I will question all "business as usual" regarding financial and procedural issues. Long-term viability should always be a factor when considering development plans and zoning changes. Long-term economic and environmental impacts should not be ignored for short-term economic gains. I will consider the fiscal impact of any development on the taxpayers. The county should be wary of any development that requires continuous subsidy, and use business incentives sparingly. Development should be encouraged within municipal boundaries, where a higher density could be supported by existing infrastructure or minimal improvement to it. I support increased impact fees in rural areas where new infrastructure is necessary.
3. The county has taken a leadership role in studying the issue of long-term water supply maintenance and protection. What should the county's emphasis be in this area over the next few years? Explain.
Long-term water supply maintenance and protection are important for all future activity in the county. Currently, McHenry County has sufficient high-quality water. But if we abuse this resource, we face potentially large costs down the road to correct our mistakes. I believe that conservation is the single most important measure we can all take. If all users - residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural - are charged the true cost of water, conservation will be the best option. I advocate deliberate consideration of water issues in development decisions.
4. Transportation issues continue to be a major concern to residents. How would you judge the county's response to their demands so far? What would you consider to be of highest county priority in this area and how would you fund its delivery?
The county's response to traffic congestion has been very poor. Building more roads and widening existing ones is not the answer. History has shown that roads will fill up as soon as they are built, and the days of cheap gasoline are over. Expanding public transportation options is the only viable solution to the county's traffic problems. Metra train service in McHenry County is an economic lifeline that needs to be strengthened by increasing the frequency of service past Crystal Lake. We also need an approach to suburban development that includes something besides additional low-density housing and strip-malls. Opportunities for walking, bike riding, and public transportation should be considered when approving zoning changes and development plans. Funding for increased public transportation options could come from gasoline taxes.
5. Not including those issues already identified above, is there another issue you believe will affect the county or your district over the next four years? If so, define it and explain how you would like to see it addressed.
No answer.
6. Please list the names of all relatives employed by or involved in contracts with McHenry County, their relationship to you and their position or area of business.
No answer.