Lauren Duddles: 2025 candidate for St. Charles City Council Ward 5

Bio

Office Sought: St. Charles City Council Ward 5

City: St. Charles

Age: 48

Occupation: Unemployed

Previous offices held: N/A

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

We are going to have to make a decision about renewing our contract with IMEA or signing a contract with a new provider. The city council needs to get bids from other energy providers and gather information on highest amount of renewable energy sources, cost, and reliability, and present the information to the public. Public engagement is crucial.

The city council should facilitate forums, workshops, and educational campaigns to inform residents about climate change impacts and the importance of sustainable energy practices. Encouraging community participation in decision-making processes will also foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. After getting feedback from residents and experts, and taking into account what is best for St. Charles, the city council needs to work together to come to this conclusion.

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?

The financial state of our community appears strong, with a commendable bond rating of Aa1, indicating a high level of creditworthiness. The successful reduction of $20 million in debt and maintaining reserves demonstrate prudent fiscal management. However, despite this positive financial outlook, strategic planning is crucial to address deferred infrastructural projects that are essential for the community's well-being.

The top priority for spending should focus on addressing deferred projects in the sewer, water systems, and road maintenance. These are essential services that directly impact the quality of life for residents and the overall functioning of the community.

While planning for necessary improvements, it's also important to evaluate areas where spending could be curtailed to ensure financial resources are used efficiently: Reviewing and potentially reducing funding for nonessential services or programs that do not significantly contribute to the community's core needs could help reallocate funds to more urgent projects.

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?

The most important infrastructure project that St. Charles must address is the improvement of its sewer and water systems. These systems are fundamental to the health and well-being of the community, ensuring that residents have access to clean water and efficient waste management.

Neglecting these systems can lead to public health risks, environmental damage, and increased costs in the future due to emergency repairs or more extensive overhauls. To fund these necessary upgrades, the city could consider utilizing reserves by allocating a portion of the city’s financial reserves specifically for these critical infrastructure projects, and utilizing federal and state grants.

By applying for grants that are available for infrastructure improvements, which can significantly reduce the financial burden on the city. The city would benefit from hiring a grant writer to ensure we access the funds available to us.

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 city council.

Working in a group setting to determine policy has been a significant part of my professional journey. As a teacher, I had the opportunity to collaborate closely with my department on curriculum development, where we collectively decided on the best approaches to enhance student learning.

This experience taught me the importance of bringing diverse perspectives together to make well-rounded decisions. My style in group settings emphasizes open communication and collaboration. I believe that every member of a group brings unique insights and strengths to the table. Therefore, my approach is to facilitate an environment where everyone feels heard and respected.

I encourage active listening and ensure that each group member has the opportunity to express their views. To reach an agreement, I prioritize building consensus. This involves understanding the core concerns and objectives of each stakeholder and finding common ground. By focusing on shared goals, we can create solutions that satisfy the majority while also considering minority opinions to avoid alienation. In managing local government, my strategy involves thorough research and analysis before making any significant decision.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I have dedicated my life to serving and connecting others. My commitment to holding quarterly meetings is a testament to my belief in accessible governance. I aim to bridge the gap between local government and the community, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

By bringing government discussions directly to the people, I can make participation easier for those who may not have the time or capacity to attend regular city council meetings. I bring a wealth of experience in collaborative decision-making from my background in education and community service.

As a teacher, I developed skills in policy-making and curriculum development, always focusing on what is best for the students. This experience has honed my ability to work with diverse groups of people, find common ground, and make informed decisions that benefit the community.

My goal is to present transparent information to the public, facilitating a decision that aligns with our community’s values and future needs. My roles on the youth commission and as a board member for a mental health nonprofit demonstrate my commitment to these critical areas. I am passionate about creating environments where people can thrive.

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

The implementation of a trolley. This program would provide efficient, fun and sustainable transportation options for residents.