Michael Gaeta, 2021 candidate for Hoffman Estates village board
Six candidates for three available seats
Bio
City: Hoffman Estates
Age: 82
Occupation: Self-employed
Civic involvement: Hoffman Estates village board; member of Senior Citizens committee, support Fire and Police Commission, member of Civil Air Patrol as lieutenant colonel
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: Following the governor's protocol.
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: Protocol was adhered to by people wearing masks, following social distancing and frequently washing hands.
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 been taking all precautions such as face masks, social distancing and sanitizing at all entrances to Village Hall and throughout the building and will continue to do so after the pandemic.
Q: What cuts can local government make to reduce the burden of the pandemic on taxpayers?
A: The village of Hoffman Estates has canceled all events since March 2020, and all in person committee meetings.
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: Maintaining safety of all infrastructure. Delaying remodeling of Fire Station 21.
Q: Do you plan to address businesses that don't adhere to the governor's order to close or restrict business?
A: We follow the governor's protocol so we have encouraged all businesses to do the same.
Q: Do you agree or disagree with the stance your board/council has taken on permitting recreational marijuana sales in the community? What would you change about that stance, if you could?
A: We currently do not have any marijuana distribution sites in Hoffman Estates.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: Install automobile charging stations at business locations. Reach out to the community to help senior citizens.