Jobs, taxes top candidates' to-do lists in GOP state House 62 race

An incumbent and a political newcomer will tussle in the 62nd House District's Republican primary Feb. 2, with the winner moving on to face a Democrat Party opponent.

Sandy Cole of Grayslake, a state representative since 2007, is competing with Paul Mitchell of Hainesville. Mitchell is a computer industry customer database developer and consultant.

Democrat Rich Voltair of Round Lake Beach will face the winner. Voltair does not have primary competition Feb. 2, so he's assured of competing in the November general election.

House District 62 includes all or parts of Grayslake, Gurnee, Lake Villa, Third Lake and the Round Lake area. The state representative seat carries a two-year term.

Mitchell, 47, said he wants to show leadership in opposing tax increases and in bringing in needed road improvements to the district he would represent. He said such moves are needed to boost the local economy.

In addition, Mitchell said he would take risks in challenging the "pay-to-play" culture in Springfield and make an effort to bring about a more open state government.

Cole, 56, said job creation, business growth, transportation improvements and government ethics top her to-do list. She said she's against tax increases and wants to provide constituent services such as health care availability.

She said she would work to end services duplicated in the state and shut offices with work that can be performed by another state government agency, such as the comptroller.