Rhett Taylor on becoming Grayslake mayor
Grayslake Mayor Rhett Taylor hopes to make a smooth transition from the man who's been the village's top elected official for the past eight years.
Taylor, 39, ran uncontested in the April election, so there was no question he'd replace Timothy Perry in the mayor's seat. Perry supported Taylor in the election.
After serving as a trustee from 2001 to 2005, Taylor lost his re-election bid. However, he returned to the village board as a trustee in the 2007 election and now is the mayor.
Taylor recently provided some thoughts about becoming mayor in a question-and-answer session with the Daily Herald.
Q: Although you ran uncontested, did you learn anything from residents leading up the election that you hope to put into action as mayor?
A: Although I ran an uncontested election, I still went door-to-door and campaigned for the incumbent trustees. Meeting with the residents is extremely important. I appreciate their thoughtful comments and suggestions. As mayor I plan to establish "coffees with the mayor" at the village hall so that I can have an ongoing dialogue with the residents.
Q: What is your vision for Grayslake?
A: My vision for Grayslake is to bring the taxpayer value for their dollar. We can do this by (1) attracting and retaining businesses, especially retail; (2) maintaining our balanced budget and debt-free status; (3) working to expand our roadways and provide alternate transportation options; (4) continuing our town's environmental leadership; (5) preserving our historic downtown business district; and (6) ensuring public safety.
Q: What will be your first priority as mayor?
A: My first priority as mayor is to obtain village board approval of the Cornerstone project. This project will bring business development to town, as well as millions of dollars for the local schools and other taxing bodies.
Q: What will be the first initiative, project or proposal you develop?
A: I'm currently reviewing various "green" initiatives that will be business friendly, economically viable, protect the environment and continue our leadership in environmental issues.
Q: Name and explain one thing for which you admire your predecessor?
A: My predecessor was a true public servant, who gave countless hours to this community. He brought millions of dollars of economic development and transportation improvements to this town. Additionally, he left a town debt free, at a time when many other municipalities are cutting jobs and services, we are actually expanding. This is quite an accomplishment.
Q: How will you put your mark on this office?
A: I have no desire to leave a personal mark on the town. My only desire is for Grayslake to continue to be a great place to live and raise a family.