Jennifer Baerren For Batavia 1st Ward Alderperson: Candidate Survey

BATAVIA, IL — Jennifer Baerren is seeking reelection to continue representing Batavia's 1st Ward as alderperson.

Baerren is running unopposed in the April 1 Consolidated Election.

The mayoral role as well as one alderperson seat in Wards 1, 2, 5 and 6 and two seats in Wards 3, 4 and 7 are up for grabs next month. All positions are four-year terms except one seat in Ward 3, 4 and 7, which are unexpired two-year terms.

RELATED: Batavia 2025 Consolidated Election: Who Filed For Mayor, Alderperson

Patch sent surveys to Batavia candidates ahead of the election. Responses will be published as they're received. Take a look at Baerren's answers below:

Office sought: City Council

Campaign website: N/A

Town of residence: Batavia

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race): N/A.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for. No.

Occupation: Senior specialist

Previous or current elected or appointed office: City of Batavia Alderwoman Ward 1.

The most pressing issues facing Batavia are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them. The most pressing issues currently facing the City of Batavia are:

1. Community Engagement: Our residents and business owners are the heart of our community. It is so crucial to actively seek their input to ensure our strategic and development plans align with community needs and preferences.

2. Monitoring Federally Funded Projects, as some of these critical programs could end up being paid by our residents. Some of these projects include:

• Wastewater treatment plant upgrades as this will ensure compliance with environmental regulations and upgrading aging infrastructure.
• The recent completed reconstruction of Wilson St. and Prairie intersection, which will increase pedestrian safety, improve vehicle flow, and eliminate noise pollution from passing trains.

3. The City of Batavia has many opportunities for businesses to make Batavia their home. We need to create opportunities for our residents and neighbors to think of Batavia first for food and entertainment. Involve businesses in conversations about ordinance updates to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed. Maintain an open mind with new business ideas and collaborate with them to build their ventures.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? N/A

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)? I am running unopposed.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform. I want to continue to help the City of Batavia become an environmental leader in the area. Where we are not able to make changes to our electric contract, we have identified other opportunities within the Greenest Region Compact.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? Much of this position requires us to attend weekly meetings and discuss the actions the council will take on a variety of subjects.

Why should voters trust you? Yes they should, as I will actively listen to residents’ and business owners’ concerns and feedback. And be transparent with decision, plans, and the reason behind them.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office a success? This position requires attending weekly meetings to discuss various subjects. Each council member brings unique backgrounds and experiences, fostering lively, open, and respectful conversations. These discussions lead to decisions that benefit our community.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking? When I first joined the council six years ago, I conducted an analysis comparing the proposed budget to the actual budget. It was surprising to find that, in most years, the budget was balanced by using reserves. Due to changes in project priorities and bids coming in lower than expected, the use of reserves was necessary. Additionally, money was added to the reserves because of the staff’s conservative budgeting approach. This experience underscores the importance of careful financial planning and adaptability in managing the city’s budget.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town? It is crucial that our police department is funded and well-equipped to serve and protect our residents and visitors. This includes not only providing the necessary equipment but also ensuring ongoing training for our officers. Recognizing that much of the crime in Batavia is related to mental health issues, the department has a social worker available for calls requiring a skilled professional. This approach ensures that our police force is prepared to handle a wide range of situations effectively and compassionately.

What is your view of the village's approach to commercial and residential development? The council adopted the Batavia Downtown Plan in 2024, which serves as a blueprint for future development by staff and developers. This plan was created with extensive community input and reflects the vision for the downtown area.

Regarding residential development, Batavia has two developments in different stages: one with residents already moved in and another in the beginning stages. These may be some of the last large neighborhoods built within city limits. Therefore, the focus will need to shift to middle-density and high-density housing options.

By prioritizing diverse housing options and adhering to the Downtown Plan, we can ensure that Batavia continues to grow in a way that meets the needs and desires of our community.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen? Our downtown needs a variety of housing options marketed to different needs and preferences. This would include mixed-use developments, and affordable and luxury housing. As I mentioned above, our city staff needs to identify and execute opportunities for marketing available opportunities.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family? I am dedicated to fulfilling my commitment to this position for the next four years.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions? No response.