Sandy Kaczmarski: Candidate profile, Kane County Board District 18
Democrat Sandy Kaczmarski of Elburn is challenging incumbent Republican Andrew Frasz of Elburn for Kane County Board District 18 in the Nov. 3 general election.
Kaczmarski is a social, visual, and news media consultant. She has been a member of the Wheaton and Geneva Rotary clubs, and is a former state board member of American Association of University Women.
To explore her campaign website, visit ElectSandyKacz.com.
District 18 covers parts of Elburn, Kaneville, Maple Park and North Aurora.
For a map of the district, visit countyofkane.org.
The Daily Herald recently asked the candidates to answer a series of questions. Here are Kaczmarski's replies.
Q. Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what?
A. This board has been very divisive disrespectful and I don't feel our current representative reflects the views of the constituents in this district.
Q. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?
A. I will work to ensure transparency and civility in our local government. Key issues are the environment and explore renewable energy opportunities, finding new revenue sources to keep taxes down, and ensure that workers on county projects are paid in compliance with state law.
Q. Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming in the future and how the county should deal with them. In particular in the suburbs, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle has set a goal of eliminating unincorporated areas from county oversight. Do you agree with this approach? If so, how should the county go about it?
A. It is imperative that new revenue sources are embraced so that we can continue to provide needed services throughout the county and meet the needs of seniors and families needing special help during these economically challenging times.
Q. How do you rate the county government on transparency and the public's access to records? If you consider it adequate, please explain why. If you think improvements are needed, please describe them and why they are important.
A. The current administration has not been very transparent and has been called out a number of times by the state's attorney for not complying with the law (one example, the open meetings act.) We need new voices on the board that will demand transparency to the public. Government business is the people's business and it is imperative that we conduct business, how the taxpayer's money is being spent, in the open to ensure trust in our local government.
Q. What, if anything, should be done to improve automation and customer service in county offices? What steps should be taken to make that happen?
A. As a "techie," I feel it's imperative to keep on top of the technology to better serve the public. Kane County does a fairly good job with its website, county newsletter, and meeting notification. However, we need to provide video access to all our meetings rather than just the audio.
Q. The county board will undergo redistricting following the 2020 Census. What is the most fair process? Do you support the current number of seats on the board?
A. I would be open to consider fewer seats on the board while still ensuring fair representation for everyone.
Q. Do you support the current salary and benefits structure for the county board?
A. Yes.
Q. What actions must the county take to continue to address COVID-19?
A. The county has been slow to respond to the funding it received to address this issue, mostly, again, because of divisive and lax leadership. The committee now is making progress in dispersing the funds to help local businesses and families.
Q. The new board will take over during a time of unprecedented budget challenges. What is your plan to balance the budget? What will your spending priorities be?
A. Finding new revenue sources such as reversing the board's decision to prohibit marijuana dispensaries and cultivators in unincorporated areas will bring in new funding to meet the demands. Priorities are providing services to ensure the health, well-being and safety of our residents, finding renewable energy sources to reduce costs, and ensure that future growth is "green" to protect our natural resources.