Edward Tarnow: 2023 candidate for Pingree Grove Village Board, unexpired 2-year term
Bio
Town: Pingree Grove
Age on Election Day: 73
Occupation: Retired
Previous offices held: New
Q&A
Q: What is the most serious issue your community will face in the coming years and how should the village board respond to it?
A: Growing population. The ideal situation is to keep our small town image but, prepare for the growth of the community. We are in need of commercial businesses to bring tax revenue to our village and stores to service our residents.
Q: How would you describe the state of your community's finances?
A: Suitable for now.
Q: What should be the three top priorities for spending in your community during the next four years?
A: Schools, water and police.
Q: Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed? If so, what are they?
A: Most spending now is all related to the growth of the community. They cannot be curtailed if we want to grow our population. These are necessary expenses.
Q: What do you see as the most important infrastructure project the community must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?
A: Water and sewer plants must be addressed to keep up with our population.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.
A: My last 20 years in the workforce was spent as a purchasing manager in the aerospace industry. My main job was negotiating contracts and purchasing supplies and services for our business. I've work with many different people and businesses in the private and government sector.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: I care about our village and the Carillon community which I live in. We need people to represent our entire community. Young and old alike. Life experience and history will help me do the best job for the village and the residents.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?
A: Attract a grocery store to our town that would service Pingree Grove, Hampshire and Gilberts. Combined population of 30,000 people.