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Rajkumari Chhatwani: 2021 candidate for Hoffman Estates Park District board

Seven candidates are vying for four seats on the Hoffman Estates Park District board. Denise Wilson did not respond.

Bio

City: Hoffman Estates

Age: 51

Occupation: Banking Center Financial Manager at Bank of America

Civic involvement: HEPD and Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago

Q&A

Q. Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is it?

A. I am running for reelection for a variety of reasons. One of the biggest reasons is I have always wanted to give back to the community. I am an avid member, whether it be enjoying the fitness classes or walking on the new trails. I enjoy seeing other residents utilizing the projects that we work hard to plan, budget, and execute. Another reason I am running for reelection is because I wanted to represent the minority in the community. Here, I can bring the unheard voices to light and promote diversity among community members.

Q. Did your park district 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 continue providing services. If not, please cite a specific example of what could have been done better.

A. The park district continued to adequately serve constituents during the pandemic in a multitude of ways. One of these examples is quickly adapting to Zoom calls for meetings. We came up with new and innovative programs and activities, in order to serve the community. During the Zoom calls, we were able to maintain and develop new infrastructure ideas for the park district. A specific example is that the park district provided tutoring services and day care for parents who had to go work as front line essential workers. Throughout the pandemic we were able to work through unprecedented times and come up with innovative solutions to provide our community members with the best life possible, even during tough times. Another example is adapting to online fitness classes. Instructors were still providing for their members and promoting a healthy lifestyle for residents.

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. I think that we learned many lessons during this pandemic. I think we learned how to come together as a community and face a big crisis. To address any future public health crises, I believe a few safeguards should be put in place. One idea could be having a hotline that community members can call and ask questions. Another idea could be having a website with frequently asked questions that they can refer to, because many residents may have the same. Lastly, I think an idea that would be helpful to the board members would be to send out surveys to residents to see how they are feeling, what they would like to see implemented, and any questions or concerns.

Q. How has the pandemic affected the park district's offerings and use of facilities. Are there other ways the park board can fulfill the mission of a park district during these times?

A. The pandemic has affected the park district and the use of facilities. But, the staff was able to combat this by being proactive and diligent with programming and activities. Many facilities, for example, the fitness centers were closed due to the pandemic. But, with strategic planning, we were able to open this up with safety precautions. Some examples include the usage of masks, social distancing, and using the facilities on an appointment basis.

Q. How has the pandemic affected the park district's revenue? How has that been addressed on the expense side?

A. The pandemic affected the park district revenue. Membership was down, as well as programming. On the other hand, the golf course actually exceeded the budget.

It has been addressed by coming up with new solutions in 2021. Our board members meet in order to come up with solutions to combat the loss of revenue.

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