Melvin Holmes: 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: BolingbrookWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: DuPage Township Board (4-year Terms)Age: 52Family: Married with three childrenOccupation: Correctional Officer at StatevilleEducation: Central Texas college,Crimminal Justice,Military correspondence,Police Administration,Triton College Basic english and math. Yongin university master in Tae-Kwan-Do.Civic involvement: Local 1886 AFSCMEElected offices held: NoneHave you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NoCandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Better management of dollars spent on Township services, done in an ethical way.Key Issue 2 Improve the resources of the Township program for low-income families, and youth services. For example, start a program for at-risk youth that addresses discipline through Tae Kwan Do (Korean martial arts).Key Issue 3 Moving the community forward in regards to understanding the purpose and services of the Township service programs.Questions Answers Name the three most important goals or objectives this board should tackle in the coming term. Prioritize them, and briefly discuss why you believe each to be critical, and how the board should go about addressing them.1.Increase residents trust in Township government by conducting our business in an open and honest way. 2. Improving communication with the residents so that all will know about and be able to receive Township services. 3. Work with other organizations in the community to share knowledge and experiences with the Township.In the 21st Century, with municipalities gobbling up vacant land, why are townships needed? Should they be serving a new role? If so, what?Township government has existed in Illinois since the year 1849 and its purpose, functions and services are still needed today.What should be the primary responsibility of township government?The purpose of the township government is to make sure no one is left out when it comes to helping residents that are in need.In these hard economic times, can you identify some township expenses/programs that could be trimmed or eliminated to reduce the tax burden?Yes. Any expenditures that don't result in direct services to township residents should be reduced or cut.What specific background or experience do you bring that makes you the best qualified candidate to serve as an elected official in the township?My nine years of military service and my work for sixteen years with the Illinois Department of Correctional Services and masters degree in Tae Kuwan Do indicate that I am a public servant with discipline, patience and values. My work in the church have also contributed to my compassion for others.