Shawn M. Ryan: 2022 candidate for DuPage County Board District 4

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office sought: DuPage County Board District 4

City: Glen Ellyn

Age: 61

Occupation: Retired coach and educator

Previous offices held: None

Q&A

Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I am running because I wish to be a more active part of the process.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

As new member I would bring a fresh perspective to the position. My priority would be to focus on issues of fairness and equity while working to use our resources as efficiently as possible.

Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming and how the county should deal with them.

As always the balance between programs and how to fund them is at the forefront. It is the duty of the board to use resources as efficiently as possible. I will support the development of alternative revenues in addition to a healthy review each year of how we use the current resources. There are threats to our budgets if we fail to actively recruit businesses and investors to our county.

How do you rate the county government on transparency and the public's access to records? If it's adequate, explain why. If you think improvements are needed, delineate them.

Our county government has ethics guidelines and regulations which provide a healthy level of transparency regarding what is happening at that level. As with any organization there is a need for self reflection along with continuing review to maintain the highest standards. I will support the adherence to any and all applicable guidelines.

What, if anything, should be done to improve automation and customer service in county offices? What steps should be taken to make that happen?

I would like to see continued improvements in the use of automation because it often saves tax payer resources. That said, I greatly support personal interaction between departments and our community members whenever possible.