Paul Hinds: Candidate profile

Bio:

Name: Paul Hinds

City: Villa Park

Website: www.paulhinds.com

Party: Republican

Office sought: DuPage County Clerk

Age: 57

Family: Single

Occupation: DuPage County Clerk

Education: Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science - Calvin College

Civic involvement: DuPage Education Foundation, Elmhurst Hospital Citizen Advisory Committee, Elmhurst Elks Lodge #1531, Lombard Moose Lodge #2350, Villa Park & Lombard Historical Societies, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Elected offices held: York Township Trustee (1993-2014); York Township Republican Chairman (1998-2014); York Township Republican Precinct Committeeman (1988-present)

Questions & Answers

1. Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

One of the things I enjoy about being clerk is the variety of duties, from transcribing county board and ETSB 911 minutes, to issuing birth certificates and marriage licenses. The progression of the clerk's office is of personal interest to me. I have seen this office go from hand writing to automating and providing information online. As county clerk, I witnessed the governor signing into law, the bill allowing the merger of the Election Commission with the county clerk's office. I look forward to implementing this consolidation and contributing to the history of DuPage County.

2. If you are an incumbent, describe two important initiatives you've led. If you're not an incumbent, describe two ways you would contribute to the board.

In the past four years as your county clerk, I have presided over the expansion of the clerk's website to offer access to more documents online, such as the ability to order vital records and to file and view Economic Interest Statements. I worked with the Secretary of State's office to develop the new notary public portal to print certificates in-house. I have overseen the imaging of our original vital records to preserve them for future generations.

3. The county clerk soon will take responsibility for elections in DuPage. What steps need to be taken to prepare the office for that responsibility?

During the transition, I will determine the roles and responsibilities of the Election Commission employees and how they will align with the clerk's office and organization. I will also seek input from our election judges, assess our polling places and evaluate the voting system to make improvements.

4. How secure are you in the knowledge that election results in DuPage are reported fairly and accurately?

I am extremely confident that the election results are accurate and secure in DuPage County. Election security and accuracy is my primary concern as we transition the administration of elections to the County Clerk. I will be working with the County's IT department to ensure a high level of integrity.

5. Please name one current leader who most inspires you.

Former County Clerk Gary King and mentor, who laid a solid foundation in the clerk's office. I have modernized the office by streamlining procedures, reducing costs and updating policy, while continuing to provide excellent customer service this office has always been known for.

6. What is the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?

My parents always stressed that you should find ways to give back to the community that has given you so much.

7. If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?

In life, there are no do-overs, but you need to evaluate the situation and make the best decision you can at the time. Then you will have no regrets.

8. What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?

History. The knowledge and understanding of the past helps guide the direction of the future.

9. If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?

Select a profession or job that you love to do every day.