Q&A with Grant

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 is that? What will be your main priority in office?

As a 23-year resident of Antioch, I know the people in District 1 and I understand the culture of the lakes region. I know that I can do a good job of representing this community. I am not a professional politician, I am a working person and a family man who has seen the need for change. Change in the way we do business up here. I am inspired to bring about that change through my candidacy. This campaign is about empowering my community to literally change the face of politics in northern Lake County.

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 think that the issue of property taxes needs to be addressed. Property taxes continue to rise even in a declining real estate market. There is no way that valuations have risen between 2007 and 2008 yet many residents are seeing exactly that on their blue cards. Many residents are stuck with property taxes that are outrageously high and continue to rise. Something has to give before we end up doing serious damage to our local economy. We need to find a way to give some relief to homeowners. I would call on all township assessors to be more accountable to the residents of the district. If we need to cut expenses at the county level to reduce taxes while we go through this recession, then that's what I would support.

3. Should a new golf course be built at the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve? Why or why not? If so, what type of course should be built? If not, what about the promise to residents and the Army?

My understanding is that there are deed restrictions on this property that mandate a golf course be built. Personally I would prefer open space but if we made a commitment I think that we should stand by it.

4. In November, Lake County residents will be asked to approve a $185 million plan that will raise money for land purchases and development. Is this the right economic time to make such a request? Why or why not?

I think that this is a good issue to go to referendum on, so that we have a clear idea what our residents want. On one hand, property values are low and this may be a good opportunity to create some more open space at reasonable cost. On the other hand, if the residents are suffering, economically, then I think they may choose to pass on this referendum. I will support the will of the people of Lake County.

5. If that proposal passes, where (geographically) would the forest board focus its immediate energies and money? Why?

One of my campaign pledges is to fight for resources for our district. If this referendum passes, I will fight for funds to improve our existing forest preserves and purchase additional land for open space in the 1st District.

6. Within the next few years, Lake County will have a large enough population to allow the forest board to split off from the county board and become its own agency. Should it do so? Why or why not?

At this time, I don't see the need for another layer of administration costs being passed on to the residents of Lake County

7. Are there additional steps, besides those already under way, that the county board can or should take to provide traffic congestion relief?

Yes! I think that the County Board members should be lobbying their legislators to pass a capital bill in Springfield so we don't jeopardize federal road funds that we so desperately need in the county and the state. If I get elected I will be screaming so loud that they will be able to hear me all the way in Springfield.

8. What is the most pressing county board-related issue in your district?

Property taxes and roads. I have walked every almost every precinct in the district and I can tell you from personal experience that the public is ready to revolt. The impression that I am getting is that residents are just about ready for a Boston Tea Party.

We live in one of the most affluent counties in the country and we are forced to drive on these cow paths that they call roads. We need to get these roads widened and repaired and we need it now!

One issue that I think is important with $4.00 a gallon gas is public transportation. I will call for weekend Metra service out of Antioch and more reverse commute service during the week.

I will also call on Pace to provide at least one or two fixed bus routes for Antioch and Fox Lake and the Lindenhurst area.