Ryan D. Gumma: 2023 candidate for East Dundee Village Board, 4-year term

Bio

Town: East Dundee

Age on Election Day: 42

Occupation: Small business owner

Employer: Ideal Amusements Inc

Previous offices held: None

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: Viability of the parking situation is a huge issue right now. We have a very vibrant downtown event district. At the moment we are scaring potential customers away, forcing them to circle the area in search of safe and convenient parking. There is a plan in place which would allow us to double street parking downtown, the village president and board need to work together to accomplish this for the residents, visitors, and businesses.

Q: How would you describe the state of your community's finances?

A: The finances are in good shape right now. There is some long-term debt, but it has been significantly reduced. We have some work to do but have a plan in place. The town needs to be run like a business, it will serve the village and residents well. I intend to keep an eye on it and work closely with everyone to run a tight ship and keep Dundee prosperous.

Q: What should be the three top priorities for spending in your community during the next four years?

A: No. 1) Find a permanent parking solution. No. 2) Fill vacant buildings with tenants that serve our community best. No. 3) Continue to address opportunities to add residential units.

Q: Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed? If so, what are they?

A: I have reviewed the budget, but not in great detail. I plan to keep a watchful eye on expenditures that aren't necessary. We don't have much wiggle room and need to follow strict guidelines to ensure the spending will result in an overall win for our village.

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: Parking is definitely number one. There are some state and federal grants available to assist in this project. The board would have to work as a group to find the remainder of funds that would be necessary for completion. There are local developers who have expressed interest in helping, as this is a concern to them as well.

I would have to study the budget in detail to investigate which other projects are a priority or can take the back seat short term. One that comes to mind is the recent talks of snow prohibited parking, it is a big cost to implement that program and it would only increase our current parking problem.

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: In my business, I often work in group settings with customers to try and accomplish a common goal. Disagreements can arise between their vision and the logic of how things need to be done. I am very good at defusing high stress situations and providing tangible knowledge to come to an understanding on how to move forward.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?

A: I have lived and owned a business in East Dundee for 20 years. I have every intention of staying here and raising my children in this very community that I love. Every decision made for the village directly affects me in multiple ways. Therefore, making me personally tied to its success. I have always advocated for East Dundee and supported every aspect of it. I am a reasonable, well thought out planner, and believe I can work with anyone toward a common goal.

Q: What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

A: I would really like to see the Fox River utilized more. Some of the ideas that come to mind are adding a park/playground along the river, water sports rental (kayaking/paddle boards), a fishing derby event, etc. I'd like the opportunity to capitalize on its beauty, and who doesn't love water activities in the Midwest?