Donald E. Puchalski: 2022 candidate for DuPage County Board District 1
Bio
Party: Republican
Office sought: DuPage County Board District 1
City: Addison
Age: 68
Occupation: Attorney
Previous offices held: DuPage County Board member since 2005; former District 4 school board member and Addison Township trustee
Q&A
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.
A: DuPage County needs to continue to be conservative in spending. We need to have a balanced budget and be fiscally responsible. Sales tax is high and over budget due to inflation. Spending must be within budget and continue flat once costs go down. we need to be conservative in our spending. Public safety must be our biggest concern.
Q: Is there a specific service or amenity that is lacking in the county? If so, how do you propose to provide and fund it?
A: With the SAFE-T Act becoming effective Jan. 1, 2023. criminals with felonies will have no bond and be released. This will put a bigger burden and strain on law enforcement. I opposed this state legislation. I believe we need victim rights over criminals.
DuPage County has a great state's attorney and sheriff. I am proud to have their support. Funding for their offices is a priority. This can be paid from the tax on cannabis and sales tax. DuPage also has high cash reserves which can be used for public safety.
Q: Should the county board continue to start its regular board meetings with an invocation? Please say why or why not.
A: Yes. This can be spiritual, uplifting, motivational and include non religious organizations.
Q: Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?
A: Yes, bipartisanship and cooperation can happen in DuPage County. Personal attacks are not necessary or productive. Keep partisan politics off the board floor. It takes 10 members to pass resolutions or board action. Advocate for an issue but be respectful and professional.
Q: If your political party has control of the county board after the November election, how would that benefit DuPage residents?
A: The benefit would be public safety. Attempts were made to correct and repeal the SAFE-T Act. The vote was along party lines. We need less control from Springfield. This was bad legislation. It should be about victims of crime over putting dangerous felons back on the street.
People move to DuPage for safe neighborhoods and good schools for their family. We need to be tough on crime. Let our sheriff and state's attorney do their job.
Q: The COVID pandemic put a spotlight on the need for mental health services. What role should the county play in this?
A: The county needs to work with other governmental agencies. People with mental health issues need resources and assistance.
Q: What is the single most important issue facing your district and how should the county address it?
A: PUBLIC SAFETY! We must keep DuPage County a safe county and be tough on crime. We cannot allow riots and theft.