Jean Kelly, Bolingbrook Village Trustee Candidate

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Jean Kelly is a candidate for Village of Bolingbrook Trustee. There are five candidates running for three open positions in this race.

The consolidated election is April 4.

You can find Kelly's answers to the Patch candidate questionnaire below:

Your Name:

Jean Kelly

Age (as of Election Day):

56

Town/City of Residence:

Bolingbrook

Office sought:

Village board

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

Non-partisan

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education:

Triton College, Associates Degree

Occupation:

Licensed Real Estate Broker - 22 years; Licensed Esthetician, Acne Specialist, 11 years

Campaign Website or Facebook:

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Village Trustee, DuPage Township Assessor

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

Public Safety. There are many facets to ensuring a community is safe. By working with our leadership team, we are and will continue to evaluate and implement programs, expand partnerships, and provide the necessary resources to support our public safety personnel in their efforts.

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

I think the key difference between myself and the other candidates is my experience in local government and community involvement. I was successfully elected as DuPage Township Assessor, which permitted me to develop a key understanding of other local government bodies and their operation. This gives me a unique perspective in the various ways residents can receive services from the various agencies and enables me to assist them more efficiently. This knowledge and experience helped me transition to my role as Village Trustee. My involvement with local organizations as a member and volunteer also allow me to be aware of various contacts who can assist our residents.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)? Or what changes would you like to see?

N/A

Describe the other issues or ideas that define your campaign platform:

All of my fellow candidates have a proven and long record of community involvement. We understand that this activity of servant leadership is key to maintaining and making our community even better. We have been involved, whether as public officials or residents, for many years in a variety of organizations and will continue to do so. This approach and commitment is a way of life, not just something to exhibit at election time and. Certainly, long before seeking public office. As such, our platform epitomizes our approach to life with an ongoing evolution of knowledge and ideas as we look for ways to keep our community as an example for others.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As the Township Assessor, I worked with residents every day in understanding their property tax bills, their property assessment, and the services provided by the various taxing bodies.

Why should voters trust you?

I am a 30-year resident of Bolingbrook and have a proven record of serving Bolingbrook for the betterment of all.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

My fellow candidates and I are committed to continue making Bolingbrook a welcoming community where residents can and will step up with their own time and talents to improve the lives of all. We have grown into a robust and vibrant community, and the only way to maintain the best aspects of our community is to grow participation by all residents. Success will come in the form of seeing more residents getting involved by volunteering at and/or attending and supporting the many events offered in the community.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

I believe, as my fellow candidates do, in being an incredible steward of taxpayer funds, with a strong belief in holding the line on property taxes.

Do you support the Illinois assault weapons ban, and would you support a local assault weapons ban in this community?

This matter is currently held up in litigation, and we are looking forward to the outcome of the litigation.

Do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality? If not, what specifically should be done to do so?

As everyone should be aware, Bolingbrook is one of THE most diverse communities in Illinois and, different from many communities, enjoys “door to door” diversity, meaning that each neighborhood is populated with residents of many different races, religions, and cultural backgrounds. The Village Board has supported and been involved with a variety of ethnic festivals and events and encourages all to attend and participate in learning about each other so as to support true racial equality. Residents have chosen to make Bolingbrook their home as a result of this approach.

Do you support the SAFE-T Act? Why or why not?

The entire Village Board voted unanimously on a resolution for the Illinois State Legislature to re-evaluate certain provisions of the act. This request was also supported by the State Attorney’s in most of the counties in Illinois. Our party has come out not supporting “certain provisions of” the act, as well.

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?

We are very proud of and very appreciative of the efforts of our Police department in taking proactive approaches to keeping crime under control, a challenge that certainly exists in many communities in Chicago and the suburbs. We support and have approved funding for such law enforcement as License Plate Readers, Software to download data from cell phones in criminal investigations, expansion of the K-9 Officer program, expansion of Community Outreach team, strong support of our School Resource Officers, expanded training and technological support. All of these actions, and more, is evidenced by successful and timely resolution of crimes in our community.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

We have a good mix of residential, commercial, and industrial. The commercial and industrial development is taxed at the same rate as residential properties, thus enabling residents to have a lower burden than other communities who do not benefit from the same development.

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?

We have listened to the residents and are working with the ownership of the Commons retail center at Route 53 and Interstate 55 with redevelopment of the center.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Whatever you do, give it 100%

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I moved to Bolingbrook over 30 years ago and have a vested interest in this community.