Michael J. Kenyon: 2022 candidate for Kane County Board District 16
Bio
Party: Republican
Office sought: Kane County Board District 16
City: Unincorporated Elgin Township between South Elgin and Elgin
Age: 78
Occupation: Farmer
Previous offices held: Kane County Board member since 2004
Q&A
Q: Do you support an increase in the countywide retail sales tax to help pay for expenses related to the SAFE-T legislation? If yes, which SAFE-T-related expenses, specifically, should be covered with the additional tax? If no, how do you suggest paying for the increased expenses related to the SAFE-T legislation?
A: Not at this time. We are all suffering from inflation at gas pump, the grocery store and cost of health care.
Q: What should be done to retain county staff? If you propose increases in salaries or benefits, how should those added costs be covered?
A: Pay a fair wage respect their work.
Q: Do you believe the county auditor should be an elected or appointed position? Why? Are there any other countywide offices that are currently elected positions that you believe should be appointed instead? If so, please explain.
A: Elected. Hard to replace the vote of the people.
Q: The county has seen an increase in truck traffic. How do you propose to address the infrastructure needs that come with this increase in traffic? Do you support a moratorium on warehouse developments in unincorporated areas of the county? Yes/No? Please explain.
A: No. Traffic is commerce resulting in income. Our zoning ordinances will help control.
Q: What direction do you think the county should move as it relates to its aging buildings? Build new or rehab existing buildings? Why and how would you propose the county pay for any new buildings or improvements?
A: Do we throw away old houses? We rehab them. Our home was built in 1840 and upgraded.
Q: How do you think the county should spend the remaining COVID-19 relief funds?
A: On our own departments like clerk's office. Its improvements benefits all.
Q: The COVID pandemic also put a spotlight on the need for mental health services. What role should the county play in this?
A: Working with our health department we can address the needs. The big problem is recognizing the need for help. We all must be aware of possible problems in our families.