Ray Bogdanowski: 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: Lake in the HillsWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Lake In The Hills Board Age: 56Family: Wife Cheryl 34 years, 3 Children, 5 grandchildrenOccupation: COOEducation: CPIM- Certified APICS- The Association of Operations ManagementCivic involvement: Summer Sunset Festival Committee - Co-Chairman of the Festival- Present - Parade Organizer- Present - fundraising chairman (2003 to 2007) Former Police Commissioner Chair (1991 - 2001) Citizens Police Academy Alumni I II(first graduating class) Planning and Zoning committee member (1990 - 1991)Elected offices held: Village Trustee (2001-Present) Budget Officer (2004-Present)Questions Answers What makes you the best candidate for the job?I have the expertise to provide leadership, open government and fiscal responsibility. However the most important qualifications are that I care about this community, it where I choose to raise my family. I've been part of it for 33 years and I'm not going anywhere. I sincerely care for the residents who choose to live here now and in the future.What is your opinion of your community's present level of local sales and property taxes? Is the tax just right, too low or too high? Explain.Our local sales tax is appropriate to provide what the village needs and the residents deserve. It is less than or equal to the surrounding communities.Rate the efficiency of your town's police and fire coverage. Are the departments well prepared for the next decade? What, if anything, should be changed? Do you have specific public safety concerns?Excellent. Our Police department has always been very efficient. Technology has allowed the village to have officers spending less time at a desk and more time on the street. Recently the Village Board approved the use of propane gas converters to be used in the squads,not only saving money but environmentally friendly as well, this recommendation coming from the PD. Even though we had a recent change in leadership within the PD, we have not missed a beat.Where, if anywhere, could the current budget be trimmed, and conversely, are there areas the budget does not give enough money to?The Villages Revenues/Expenditures are very conservative for 2015 with the exception of the technology upgrades we are doing this year. Most of these expenditures are one time charges that will make many of the current processes more efficient for years to come. Conversely as the newer sections in the Village ages we are going to need additional dollars for infrastructure improvements. While it's difficult to say right now where those funds are going to come from I can tell you my budget priorities are no additional tax burdens to the residents as well as public safety.What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?I would like to collaborate with our surrounding municipalities to develop public transportation for the residents to all shopping areas in the local region. This would decrease traffic congestion, improve public safety and be an environmentally friendly option for residents in McHenry CountyWhat other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?Working to exploring revenue opportunities that do not place additional tax burdens on our residents. Maintaining quality customer service to our residents. Transportation improvements. Many changes are expected throughout the Randall Rd corridor. We need to make sure our business and residents are not affected negatively by the changes that are being planned.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Actually 2, Mark Kirk and Tammy Duckworth, it sort of ironic that they may oppose each other, but their commitment to serve is inspiring.What's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?The importance of family.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I've had a blessed with a wonderful life, wouldn't change a thing.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?Social Studies- Helped me understand the world we live in. Helped me develop research skills and the ability to think criticallyIf you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?Be honest, fair and be true to yourself.