Frank L. Coconate: 2022 candidate for Cook County Board District 9
Bio
Party: Republican
City: Chicago
Age: 64
Occupation: Armed security guard/anti violence activist
Previous offices held: None
Q&A
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: Cook County government has lost touch with the people of the 9th Dist., in regards to crime and high taxes that are mismanaged. I am running to represent the people of the 9th Cook County Dist.
Q: Cook County was alone in the six-county Chicago area to require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 to enter restaurants, bars and other establishments earlier this year. Did you agree with that decision, and would you support reimposing that requirement should the region face another surge in infections?
A: It's not the Job of Cook County Government to force people to be vaccinated. As a Cook County Commissioner, I would only inform, suggest and ask my constituents.
Q: Did the county do enough to support businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic? If yes, please name one specific program you supported that did that. If no, please name one specific action the county could have taken to help.
A: Cook County Government had no regard for small business when they came up the COVID 19 Pandemic plan. I would left all business open and never locked down the public.
Q: There's been a concerted effort within the county's criminal justice system to incarcerate fewer pre-trial defendants in the county jail. Some, particularly in the suburbs, blame this for a rise in crime. Do you support these policies? If not, what would you suggest instead?
A: I don't support the policies of the Cook County State's Attorney or Cook County Sheriff. I will focus more on the metal health of offenders and find revenue to reopen Mental Health Facilities.
Q: In July 2020, the county board passed a resolution that called for, in part, the county to "redirect funds from policing and incarceration to public services not administered by law enforcement." Did or do you support this measure and the philosophy behind it? Why or why not?
A: I am for finding revenue to open more Mental health Facilities.
Q: Some elected officials have proposed a "gas-tax holiday" to ease the burden of rising gasoline prices on county residents. Would you support such a proposal for Cook County? Why or why not?
A: No. It would just be a band aid, that can't be sustained. I would COME UP WITH A PLAN TO ALLOW SENIORS AND LOW INCOME FAMILIES to apply for a public transportation card, were they would ride public transportation for free or at discount prices.