As a candidate for Village President, I am committed to ensuring Villa Park thrives as a vibrant, connected, and forward-looking community. My platform is built on the foundations of the Villa Park Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Plan, reflecting both long-term goals and actionable priorities to meet the needs of our residents today and tomorrow.
Platform Priorities
1. Economic Growth
Building a stronger local economy through business development and workforce opportunities.
- Attract and retain businesses by streamlining permit processes and offering targeted incentives.
- Support local entrepreneurs through mentorship programs and “Shop Local” initiatives.
- Partner with schools and organizations to create job training programs and internships.
Villa Park's growth depends on a robust local economy. My platform aligns with the Comprehensive Plan's emphasis on diversifying the tax base through business attraction and retention, and the Strategic Plan's focus on fostering workforce readiness. By supporting small businesses, creating new opportunities, and building partnerships for workforce development, we can ensure Villa Park's economic foundation remains strong and sustainable.
2. Infrastructure Modernization
Ensuring safe, accessible, and efficient roads, utilities, and public spaces.
- Prioritize repairing and maintaining aging roadways to improve transportation.
- Upgrade water, sewer, and stormwater systems to reduce flooding risks.
- Expand sidewalks, bike paths, and public spaces to promote accessibility and recreation.
Modernizing infrastructure is about creating a community that works for everyone. The Comprehensive Plan emphasizes the need for long-term investment in critical infrastructure, while the Strategic Plan prioritizes service enhancements. By addressing these needs with a strategic approach, we can reduce costs, improve safety, and ensure Villa Park remains accessible and resilient for generations to come.
3. Sustainability
Advancing eco-friendly initiatives to protect our environment and ensure long-term resilience.
- Invest in green infrastructure like rain gardens and permeable pavements.
- Promote renewable energy adoption for municipal buildings and community programs.
- Expand recycling programs and introduce composting options to reduce waste.
Sustainability is both an environmental and economic priority for Villa Park. The Comprehensive Plan highlights the importance of green practices, while the Strategic Plan emphasizes efficiency and innovation. My platform integrates these goals to promote a healthier environment and create cost-effective solutions that benefit everyone.
4. Community Engagement
Fostering open communication and ensuring every voice is heard.
- Host regular town halls to provide updates and gather feedback from residents.
- Create advisory committees to focus on key community issues and solutions.
- Launch an online portal for residents to access updates, meeting minutes, and resources.
- Promote wider adoption of the My Villa Park App to enhance resident engagement and streamline communication.
Engaged residents make for a stronger community. My platform aligns with the Strategic Plan's emphasis on communication and collaboration and builds on the Comprehensive Plan's call for greater transparency. By driving adoption of tools like the My Villa Park App, we can create easier access to village services, faster issue resolution, and a deeper connection between residents and leadership.
