Michael M. Marquardt: 2023 Candidate for Vernon Hills Village Board
Bio
Town: Vernon Hills
Age on Election Day: 68
Occupation: Public Works, building and utilities, crew, leader
Employer: Village of Hawthorn Woods
Previous offices held: Elected Vernon Hills trustee in 2004.
Q&A
Q: What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the city council or village board respond to it?
A: There are no serious issues at this time or in the coming years. Large portion of the village income is sales tax revenue. We support our businesses. For example, when COVID hit, we were in contact with them and asked, how could we help? We helped with advertisement and reduced fees.
Q: How would you describe the state of your community's finances?
A: We are financially sound and AAA, bonded.
Q: What should be the three top priorities for spending in your community during the next four years?
A: 1. Quality of our employees 2. Street rehab 3. crime prevention.
Q: Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed? If so, what are they?
A: We keep a watchful eye on our spending. There are no issues at this time.
Q: 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?
A: Road construction due to the congestion. We receive grants from the state must file them in a timely manner. Also, the village must contribute. We budget in advance for these projects.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board or city council.
A: I do my research, communicate with my peers, look at the pros, cons and benefits. Prior to a meeting would discuss the thoughts with board members and staff.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: Experience, work well with people, I've been a part of the community for 43 years. I have volunteered (coaching sports, Summer celebration, Oktoberfest. Have served the Village as a trustee for 19 years.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: Green village, Energy efficiency, Solar and wind energy, may be placed on our buildings and at our sports complex.