Jorge Cordova: 2023 candidate for Villa Park Village Board

Bio

Town: Villa Park

Age on Election Day: 39

Occupation: Senior Vice President, Paid Media

Employer: Zeno Group

Previous offices held: N/A

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: As a candidate running for the Villa Park Village Board, I believe the most pressing issue facing our community in the coming years is the need for responsible financial planning and management.

We must address budget shortfalls, infrastructure needs, and potential pension liabilities in order to ensure the long-term stability of our community.

To respond to these challenges, I believe the village board should prioritize proactive financial planning, invest in cost-saving technologies and innovative solutions, and work closely with all stakeholders to make informed decisions.

The ability to understand the complexities of our upcoming projects and the fortitude to see them through will be key to our success in long-term planning.

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

A: I am of the strong conviction that financial stability holds paramount importance for the future of Villa Park. I have faith in the competence of the newly appointed village manager to tackle the persistent difficulties and make astute choices for the well-being of the community.

My focus moving ahead will be to ensure the financial prosperity of Villa Park by prioritizing related concerns.

This includes being fiscally responsible in spending to plan for the future of Villa Park, ensuring that every decision and action taken is in line with maintaining long-term financial stability.

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

A: As a committed member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission for the past eight years, I am confident that the construction of a new Community Recreation building should be the utmost priority for Villa Park.

With 13 years of residency in the community, I have witnessed the increasing demands of its families and aim to address these needs through creative solutions and cutting-edge technologies.

I will make it my mission to secure the necessary support and funding for this project, as I understand its significance in fostering a stronger connection between residents and their community, in line with Villa Park's evolving landscape.

Additionally, I believe that long-term planning and adhering to a well-structured project timeline will ensure the village's capital projects are well-thought-out and prepared for any unforeseen situations, thereby safeguarding a secure future for Villa Park.

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

A: Reducing frivolous spending is one of the top priorities for the community. I have seen instances of arbitrary spending that lack proper oversight, and this needs to be curtailed.

Instead, I want to focus on transparency and accessibility for the elected officials.

While coffee with the board events are a great initiative, they may not be convenient for everyone, especially those with young children.

That's why I plan to introduce an easy-to-use online forum that makes it easier for residents to connect with the village board without any barriers. This way, everyone can have their voice heard and contribute to the betterment of the community.

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: During uncertain economic times, some communities may choose to delay nonessential projects such as new construction or beautification initiatives.

It is important for communities to prioritize spending based on immediate needs and available resources. Additionally, alternative funding options, such as grants or private investment, may also be explored.

Some common priorities include road and bridge repair, water and sewage systems, and public transportation. These projects are essential to ensure public safety and health, as well as maintain quality of life for residents.

In terms of funding, there are several options available, including tax revenue, bonds, and public-private partnerships.

It is important for communities to have a comprehensive financial plan in place, taking into account both current and future needs, in order to prioritize projects and secure sustainable funding sources.

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: The best style in such a setting is to foster open communication, encourage active participation, and establish a shared understanding of the goals and objectives of the community. This can be achieved through effective collaboration, delegation of tasks, and regular check-ins.

In order to reach agreement, it's important to consider the perspectives and opinions of all community members, and work to find common ground.

This can be done through active listening, and the use of tools such as brainstorming, consensus-building exercises, and facilitated discussions.

Effective leadership is also critical in producing effective actions and decisions. The leader should encourage collaboration, foster a positive group dynamic, and provide support and guidance to group members.

In addition, the leader should ensure that the group stays focused on its goals and objectives, and helps members to stay engaged and motivated throughout the process.

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

A: As a dedicated member of the Villa Park community, I have a strong passion for making a positive impact. Through my volunteer work as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, I have been actively involved in several projects aimed at enhancing our parks and recreational areas.

From the revamp of Cortesi Veterans Park to the creation of the Community Gardens at Westmore Park, I have been instrumental in improving the quality of life for residents of Villa Park.

Additionally, as a coach for the Villa Park Warriors Flag Football program, a supporter of the PTA, and an advocate for the music programs at Ardmore and Jackson schools, and an overly excited soccer dad. I have demonstrated my commitment to supporting the educational and recreational needs of families in our community.

My goal is to work toward a more holistic and inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

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

A: Some of these ideas include: promoting renewable energy sources, creating more community gardens and urban farms, implementing a sustainable transportation system, establishing communitywide recycling programs, and supporting local businesses through tax incentives and other resources.

The effectiveness of these ideas will depend on various factors specific to our needs and will require collaboration and engagement between local government, community organizations, and residents to determine which is the best fit and how to implement it effectively.