GOP hopefuls for treasurer discuss qualifications
The Republican candidates for Lake County treasurer have different motivations for running for the post.
David Stolman and Jeri Atleson are after the GOP nomination and will face off in the March 18 primary election.
The winner will battle Democrat Cynthia Plouche, who doesn't have a primary challenger.
Incumbent Robert Skidmore isn't seeking re-election.
Stolman, of Buffalo Grove, is a veteran county board member and a former chairman of that panel. Atleson, of Mundelein, is a Fremont Township board member and former Fremont Public Library District trustee.
The Daily Herald asked the GOP hopefuls questions about their candidacies in recent questionnaires. Some answers have been edited for clarity, grammar or length.
Q. Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is that?
Atleson: Our property taxes are among the highest in the nation. As a (certified public accountant), I have the skills and experience to help educate people about how their property taxes are calculated. During a time when so many homeowners are struggling to pay their property taxes, empowering people with knowledge has never been more important.
Stolman: I have always served my neighbors in Lake County in an effort to improve the lives of Lake County families. In addition to fulfilling the primary responsibilities of the treasurer's office, I will continue to be a strong voice for economic development in Lake County. I will work diligently to create and retain quality jobs in order to put our residents back to work. As an experienced attorney, businessman, and 21-year member of the Lake County Board, I have the skills and experience to foster economic growth in Lake County.
Q. What differentiates you most from your opponents in the race?
Atleson: I am a CPA running for treasurer, not a lawyer or a career politician. I have experience performing treasurer duties for various organizations. I also do not believe we have to raise the levy (taxes) every year in order not to miss out on revenue.
Stolman: My experience, both in business and in Lake County government, is what differentiates me most from my opponents in this race. This experience will allow me to address the current challenges we face while keeping an eye on the future.
It is this forward-thinking mentality that has allowed Lake County to weather the economic storm brought on by the recent economic downturn. As treasurer, I will develop a plan for long-term fiscal responsibility in the office and will hire and retain a talented staff capable of leading the office long into the future.
With that plan in place for long-term success, I will hold myself to term limits, staying in office only two terms, so that a future leader can build on the foundation I and those before me have laid to continue to move Lake County forward.