Danny Glover: 2021 candidate for Downers Grove Village Council
Six candidates are running for three, 4-year seats on the Downers Grove Village Council in the April 6, 2021, election. They are newcomers Chris Gilmartin, Danny Glover, Tammi Karam and Andrew Pelloso, and incumbents Margaret "Marge" Earl and Greg Hosé.
The Daily Herald asked the candidates several questions about issues facing the village.
Below are Glover's responses.
In-person early voting with paper ballots began Feb. 25 at DuPage County Fairgrounds Building 5, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. In-person early voting with touch-screen voting begins March 22 at locations throughout the county. Learn more at www.dupageco.org/earlyvoting/.
Bio
Town: Downers Grove
Age: 33
Occupation: Owner, Skuddlebutts
Civic involvement: No answer
Q&A
Q: How do you view your role in confronting the pandemic: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents - even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state and federal authorities?
A: I believe that this role is about giving a voice to all constituents and trying to view all perspectives. In such a divisive issue, deferring to state authorities and federal authorities ensures you are acting in accordance with the law and overall the best interest of the majority of your constituents.
Q: Did your town continue to adequately serve its constituents during the disruptions caused by the pandemic? If so, please cite an example of how it successfully adjusted to providing services. If not, please cite a specific example of what could have been done better.
A: Yes, Downers Grove responded promptly to the pandemic. They quickly put out videos and updates making sure everyone stayed informed and highly advised compliance with COVID protocols.
In an effort to help local businesses they implemented and made exceptions for outdoor dining areas, allowed off premises liquor sales, and actively promoted local businesses. They froze new hiring, cut expenses, and deferred major project to ensure that there were no disruptions of service.
Q: In light of our experiences with COVID-19, what safeguards/guidelines should you put in place to address any future public health crises?
A: We have all learned quite a bit from this. I think a number of our habits that have changed will stick. The one thing that sticks out to me is that "Time is of the essence." While it is possible that nothing could have prevented this, I do believe that in the future we will react much quicker stopping the spread with lockdowns and solutions rather than reacting on the fly.
Q: What cuts can local government make to reduce the burden of the pandemic on taxpayers?
A: Local governments can and have cut back on hiring of certain positions within the village, and suspend projects and nonessential expenses.
Q: What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what infrastructure project can be put on the back burner?
A: The most important infrastructure project is our Storm Water System. This effects many areas of our community and not only puts homes in danger but can cause many problems roads and flooding. If financial struggles continue or get worse, the Village Hall/Police Building can temporarily be put on the back burner.
Q: Do you plan to address businesses that don't adhere to the governor's order to close or restrict business?
A: I would strongly encourage and advise everyone to adhere to the governor's order.
Q: Do you agree or disagree with the stance your council has taken on permitting recreational marijuana sales in the community? What would you change about that stance, if you could?
A: I agree with the decision to permit recreational marijuana sales. Given the acceptable widespread use, this use of recreational marijuana is becoming increasingly conventional. By not permitting its sale in your village, you are only giving away tax dollars to your neighboring community.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: Public transportation/downtown trolley.