Anthony (Tony) Arredia: Candidate Profile

Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioKey IssuesQA Bio City: Des PlainesWebsite: http://citizens4tonyarrediaOffice sought: Des Plaines Mayor (4-year Term)Age: 75Family: Married - 3 children - 4 grandchildrenOccupation: Maryville Academy (1150 North River Road -- DP) Director of Government RelationsEducation: Certificate In Advanced Management -- University of ChicagoCivic involvement: Italian American Club ---- Italian Catholic Federation ---- Saint Zachary Church (Usher - Lector) Boy Scouts of America (Blackhawk District)Elected offices held: Alderman 8th Ward -- 2 terms Acting Mayor of Des Plaines --- 16 months Elected Mayor of Des Plaines ----- 2 terms President -- Northwest Municipal Conference.Have you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NoCandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Continue my attention to resolve flooding in Des Plaines by implementing the second phase of the successful Levee #50 project that has not only provided flood relief to homes located east of the Des Plaines River but removed properties from both the flood way and flood plain. My plan also included continued discussions with the MWRD to connect both the 4th and 8th wards to the deep tunnel (I believe that during my tenure I proved that nothing is impossible).Key Issue 2 Re-establish a strong business development program while making sure that businesses currently housed within our boundaries continue to remain in Des Plaines.Key Issue 3 Prepare potential legal action against the state's threat to provide 5 additional casino licences (casino locations could threaten city revenues).Questions Answers There's been talk about using casino revenue to update the city's infrastructure. Where is that money most urgently needed?Utiizing casino revenue could be and should be part of a plan that addresses several areas related to infrastructure (streets - sidewalks - alley -- city beautification etc) however, resolving the city's flooding problems (which seems be the number one issue only during a flood)needs to be addressed immediately.What can be done to fill vacancies and draw new businesses to the downtown area? Be as specific as possible.During my administration I and several alderman attended a number of business conventions while meeting with potential business partners contemplating movement into the Northwest corridor. It is important that the Mayor - City Manager - EDC Director and EDC committee devote time to solicite new business partners. During my tenure we were able to bring a total of 45 new businesses -- 21 condo developements --- 5 of the biggest air couriers (Forward Air - International Air Port Center --- Nippon Express --- Yusen Global Logistics -- Fed Ex) --- 4 strip malls and the Hilton Hotel while referbishing both the Raddison and Marriot hotels. This was accomplished by both reaching out and working with the businesses community.What is the biggest issue facing Des Plaines at present, and what are your thoughts on it?Des Plaines needs to re-establish its reputation as a business friendly community which includes making sure that the current businesses housed within our boundaries remain strong. In 2004 Des Plaines was chosen as the Northwest communities hottest commodity and the builder's choice. In 2006 Mr. Mike Austin (news analyist for New Homes Magazine) stated that Des Plaines was the new paradise within the Nortwest Community" and that they have stired interest in the Northwest corridor and have found itself in a new Economic makeover. Des Plaines cannot lose sight of the importance of a strong business community and cannot fully depend upon Casino revenue. There is also the issue of Flooding for example what would happen if the casino flood?Given the delicate balance between the need for revenue and over-taxing local businesses, what is your opinion of Des Plaines' present level of local sales taxes? Is the tax just right, too low or too high? Explain.I am not familiar with the thought process associated with current sales tax adjustments. However, Des Plaines might start thinking about an incentive plan to help motivate the current business community... for instance, we might investigate the possibility of establishing a short termed sales tax rebate threshold until the economy improves.What are the city's biggest public safety concerns? Explain the concern as you see it, and discuss how you think it should be addressed.Flooding (contaminated water -- mold -- contaminated lawns and basements) is still my biggest concern. See the aforementioned statements contained within my Top Priority. Home Land Security --- Continue to work with both State and Federal agencies to ensure public safety (under my watch we developed the current disaster recovery plan which has proven to be effective. Continuing to provide our teenagers with a safe place to meet is also very important (During my watch we secured Federal/State funding while working with the Des Plaines Park District that established the first successful teen club). There is also ongoing concerns associated with drugs/alcohol (I intend to re-establish the city's support to MCAF).