Age: 66

Office: Alderman (2-year term), Ward 2, City of Marengo

Bio: Retired in 2007 after 42 years in community banking; Marengo-Union Economic Development Commission; the Marengo-Union Chamber of Commerce; the Sacred Heart Finance Commission; served on the Board of the Illinois Bankers Assoc, and the Community Bank Council of the American Bankers Association.

1. What are your top priorities?

My top priorities are: A) maintain a fiscally-sound city government so the City can continue to provide the services required by our residents. I see this as the primary role of the Council – especially during these difficult economic times. A) Encourage a controlled growth in population sufficient to attract new business and sustain the success of our existing businesses –without substantial cost to existing residents.

2. What is your opinion of a possible TIF district on the east side of the city.

Tax Increment Financing Districts have been used by many neighboring municipalities as an incentive to re-develop some areas. Developers of such areas have come to expect some economic assistance from the governing municipality. If the area defined is for commercial development and, therefore, not adding students to our schools, then a TIF may well be a tool we should use just as others have.

3) Where do you stand on the proposed transit development in the West Corridor.

A commuter transit line extended to Marengo with a coach yard would be a tremendous asset for the future of this City. I am pleased that Metra has decided to substantially fund this initial planning stage. Sufficient acreage for a station, adequate commuter parking, and a Metra coach yard are requirements for the site. While there may also be large tracts available on the east side of the City, it is my understanding that Metra wants to attract riders from the Belvidere/Rockford areas.

4. Why are you seeking public office:

I am seeking this office simply because I feel compelled to “give something back” to this City and its residents -- which have been so good to me during my 25 years with the First National Bank of Marengo. Also, being retired, I have the time to devote to this position.

5.Why are you the best person for the office that you are seeking?

I believe I am the most qualified for this position due to my experience in the financial services industry. At the Bank, I approved millions of dollars of financing to both residents and local businesses. This, in turn, created jobs and housing and an overall better standard of living. This understanding of the “greater good” and my management experience can be helpful to the City –especially in these difficult economic times.