Pamela Althoff: 2022 candidate for McHenry County Board District 6
Bio
Party: Republican
Office sought: McHenry County Board District 6
City: McHenry
Age: 68
Occupation: Retired
Previous offices held: McHenry city clerk, 1994-2001; Fox Waterway director, 1996-2001; McHenry mayor, 2001-2003; District 32 State Senator, 2003-2018
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: McHenry County has a long solid record of being fiscally responsible while maintaining excellent basic services for its residents. The board continues this long established tradition.
Regarding the chief threat(s) looming in McHenry County's future, well I believe it to be the same threat that exists in every home in the county ... inflation. Government will need to determine how to provide expected basic services while keeping expenses within budget and taxes in check.
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: I believe this is the time to address internal projects that can be expensed and incorporated within normal working operations with little or no impact on the budget. Projects like improving and expanding on constituent outreach via social media, online customer service updates and refining our shared services efforts.
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: While I believe the McHenry County Board has managed to keep partisan politics at bay for the most part, in this political climate, it is always wise to continue to promote cooperation and collaboration. I am currently requesting the board evaluate and revamp the member orientation focusing on parliamentary procedure, board vs member authority/responsibility and resolution introduction. I believe this action will help continue a positive working relationship between board members going forward.
Q: The COVID pandemic put a spotlight on the need for mental health services. What role should the county play in this?
A: The McHenry County Board should continue to support the Mental Health 708 board by appointing experienced, credible, professional mental health experts to the Mental Health Board. In addition continued collaboration through the McHenry County Board's member liaison to the Mental Health Board is a must. Regular evaluation by the McHenry County Board of the Mental Health Boards efforts are also suggested.
Q: What is the single most important issue facing your district and how should the county address it?
A: Economic development which practically means the maintenance and improvements of our infrastructure needs; roads, rail and broadband. Project prioritization will help with ARPA money allocation through the county, as well as grant opportunities. The widening of Route 31 from Route 120 both north and south is an important improvement for the continued economic growth of district 6 (currently district 4) and the entire northeastern quadrant of McHenry County as well as the state's ongoing bridge maintenance program specifically the Johnsburg Road bridge at Riverside Drive.