Quin O'Brien: Candidate Profile

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Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioQA Bio City: GrayslakeWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Grayslake Village Board Age: 51Family: Wife - Maria Daughter - Julia Son - QuinOccupation: Realtor / Business OwnerEducation: I have a 2 year degree from McHenry County College.Civic involvement: I am a member of the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce and the Grayslake Historical Society. My company donates to many local civic causes.Elected offices held: NoneQuestions Answers What makes you the best candidate for the job?I am a successful independent business owner in an established profession yet I crated my own unique niche. I listen, look for solutions, solve problems, and help people. My home and business are both in Grayslake. On a personal note, I am debt free with the exception of my mortgage and I have a limited working proficiency in Spanish.How would you describe the condition of your community's budget, and what are the most important specific actions the town should take to assure providing the level of services that people want?The Village does very well with the money they receive. But, only a small percentage of the general tax bill actually goes to the Village. The people need to pay close attention to the school board elections as that taxing body is responsible for roughly 70% of the taxes we pay.Where, if anywhere, could the current budget be trimmed, and conversely, are there areas the budget does not give enough money to?Hard to tell since it is not published. The village website offers a fantastic Annual Report but a copy of the budget with a list of actual dollar amounts of receipts and expenditures would be a good resource.Is the village doing enough to attract business development? Please elaborate.I see growth all of the village so clearly businesses want to locate here. Unfortunately, I also see many businesses struggling. There needs to be better transparency as to what programs are available to local businesses such as the faÃsect;ade grant program. Our water bills do a great job of informing people of the tree, lawn mower, and rain barrel programs but I think there needs to be mention of business opportunities as well. Or, publish them on the Village website.What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?I would love to see something exciting come to the old fairgrounds. I picture a mixed-use property featuring an upscale lifestyle mall such as Deer Park with retail, a gazebo, a water feature (fountain), and walking paths. Towards the back of the property condos or medical offices. That intersection truly is a gateway to our village. It would create a grand entrance and then would also allow more people clear access to Center Street and a direct path to Downtown Grayslake. With the hospital and medical offices directly across the street it would give out-of-town visitors a place to explore. None of this should detract from our existing business but instead draw more traffic and thusly increase business opportunities for all. For the residents, it would be another outside venture and a gathering place.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?Traffic, recycling, bike baths: Traffic flow needs to be improved. I am not the first to suggest it. Fortunately, we are the center of Lake County and as such easily accessible to all. Unfortunately, we are the speed bump of Lake County. People specifically avoid driving through Grayslake as it is quicker to go around it. Recycling: Without much effort, the Village could increase its municipal recycling. It could be as simple as putting recycling bins next to the trash cans at the many indoor and outdoor functions we have. Bike Paths: More of the bike paths need to be connected. Much has been done, much needs to be done. Currently, there is no easy way (or safe way) to walk or take a bike to the Washington Street Metra station from any location North of Washington.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.My wife. Though not a leader in the true sense of the word, she has unbounded compassion.What's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?Work hard and you will create your own luck.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I have no regrets. I may not be perfect but my past has molded my present. It's who I am.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?Any business class. I am a self-employed one-man show, I use every class daily.If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?Do what you love. Find your passion and live it.