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Michael Rein: Candidate Profile

McHenry County board District 5 (Republican)

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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:BioQA Bio City: WoodstockWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Twitter: Candidate did not respond.Facebook: Vote For ReinOffice sought: McHenry County board District 5 Age: 53Family: Candidate did not respond.Occupation: Doctor of ChiropracticEducation: Associate of Science Bachelors of Science Doctor of ChiropracticCivic involvement: Woodstock Chamber of Commerce Board Member Marine Corp League Member #1009 Member/Usher of Grace Lutheran Church Moose Lodge Member #1329 Past President McHenry County College Alumni AssociationElected offices held: McHenry County Board District 5Questions Answers The county board chairman often references high property taxes as the greatest issue facing McHenry County. What steps would you take to address this problem?My voting record shows consistent tax saving results. I voted against patronage hires and increases to operational cost to our taxpayers. My future goals include returning money to residents from retired bonds and moving from tax abatements to permanent tax reductions. I also propose an expanded Wellness program for employees and other benefit changes which have the potential to reduce health care expenses by millions of dollars.How do you think the Valley Hi Nursing Home should be operated, and what should be done about it's multimillion-dollar surplus?Taxpayers decided to fund Valley Hi through referendum. This obligation should continue until a possible referendum reverses the county operations. I would like to direct the surplus funds for ongoing operating expenses and specialty care needs. McHenry County residents have a need for Dementia and Alzheimer care facilities and Valley Hi has the space necessary for these kinds of treatment programs.What is your position on government consolidation? Are there areas of government in McHenry County that strike you as prime candidates for such consideration?I supported the consolidation efforts for the merger of the County Clerk's Office and the County Recorder's Office. I have involved residents with consolidation efforts through referenda and investigated fact gathering. I expect to forward tax savings through standardized Assessor programs and additional intergovernmental agreements. I support reducing the number of County Board Members by 25%. I also support elimination of the new costs attributed to the County Board Chair position.How do you rate the county government on transparency and the public's access to records? Please explain.Increases to transparency and access to records is a key responsibility of mine. There is always an opportunity to improve existing procedures. This past year, we have enhanced audio and video meeting availability. I will work to improve resolution and ordinance naming conventions and standards for ease of search and find access. I am hoping the County Board will require a timely review and release of subject matter which is available to the public. A greater effort to include McHenry County residents with shared information and decision making is a benefit to all.Should small amounts of recreational marijuana be legalized and taxed? Please elaborate on your position.The County Board follows the rules and regulations decided by the elected State Representatives and State Senators. McHenry County Board does not make independent decisions on this matter.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?I have and will continue to streamline projects and services for efficiency to reduce the tax burden. I have and will continue to find ways to develop intergovernmental agreements for lowering the costs of shared services. Finally, I will continue to insist that rules and regulations are followed and not bent or broken for individual needs at the administration and County building.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Bill Gates is an innovator that changed the world. His philanthropy, has improved the quality of life for millions and should be inspiring to all.What is the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?My father instilled in me discipline and honesty. If you do those things you will be successful in whatever path you choose in life.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I don't think do-overs. Life experiences are what makes us who we are. The highs and lows teach us how to better for the future.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?Business classes showed me the time, preparation, dedication and understanding one must have to be successful in any avenue one pursues.If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?I think giving kids the best advice is always follow your dreams!