Jeffrey Otway: Candidate For Frankfort Library Board Of Trustees

FRANKFORT, IL — The consolidated election, which features several local races, will be held on April 1, with early voting starting on March 17. As a way to help keep voters informed, Patch offers candidate questionnaires for all candidates in local races.

One of those races in Frankfort is the race for Frankfort Public Library Board of Trustees. There is one candidate running for an unexpired 2-year term, and six candidates running for four 4-year terms.

One of those candidates is Jeffrey Otway, who is running for a 4-year term. Otway recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire, and his answers can be found below:

(If you are a candidate in the upcoming April 1 election, please email andrea.earnest@patch.com for a candidate questionnaire to share your positions with readers)

Your name:

Jeffrey w Otway

Campaign Website/Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profi...

Office sought:

Library board

Town/City of Residence:

Village of Frankfort

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. Please include years of experience:

Financial advisor 7 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

None

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

I think it's an ongoing issue like any other elected position. It's the delicate balance of forward-thinking and wanting change to come immediately - to also taking care of the needs of the library. The current board has started the process to fix the aging building with a new HVAC system along with minor upkeep. This will require time and money to see it to completion, which could impact any plans for the intermediate to longer term projects. However, I feel confident we as a newly elected board will have the capacity to balance the needs of today and wants and wishes of tomorrow.

My approach is simple. As a new trustee, I plan to understand the process first, listen to residents, and if elected, work side by side with my fellow board members to get the job done-helping to ensure the library stays relevant in a meaningful and impactful way.

If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board or plan to change?

The current board has one incumbent on the ballot, with six positions open to be filled. It's not so much that we are challengers, but it does create the opportunity for a fresh perspective. With my financial planning background, I intend to utilize those skills of developing relationships, networking, and planning for the future to the library, board, and people of Frankfort.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

The library is more than just books. Ben Franklin when starting the library had a vision that the common person could have access to books, which at the time was something that everyone couldn't get access to on their own. The Frankfort Library is tremendous in its services from engaging content from highly recognized authors and programs for kids that foster a higher level of thinking. I love books, but I do think there is an opportunity to gather resources that possibly others don't have access to. One example is the Frankfort Library's 3D printing machine. This is a step in the right direction, and I think that there will be more ideas that I will introduce that will incorporate technology and resources within the logistics and expenditures of the library.

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

The career as a financial advisor is an extremely rewarding yet challenging profession. The nature of my business, the best part in my opinion, is to ingrain oneself in the community. Joining the chamber, volunteering, and getting to know people and understanding what's important to them and then trying to help them make the best financial decisions so they can live the best lives. I am an entrepreneur at heart, which has its challenges of juggling day to day business operations to being relevant within the financial advisory profession. I think the most important accomplishment is seeing my kids live a healthy and happy life alongside my wife, Laura. Without Laura's support and the grace of my kids, I don't think I would be here answering these questions for a cause I deeply care about, which is the public library and the idea that it's an institution for all to benefit.

Why should voters trust you?

For over 10 years, clients have entrusted me with their financial needs and because of that, my business is thriving! I'm also a proud father of three amazing girls: Quinn 8, Holly 3, and Kendall 7 months. Finally, my spouse, Laura Otway, has helped and supported me in all of my endeavors and is my trusted advisor in life!

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

An accomplishment within the first four years would be working with an active and passionate board, networking with other businesses and government entities to advocate and bring awareness to the idea that the library is accessible to everyone and isn't just books. One thing that could come to mind is garnering additional resources that will help to modernize the library. Improving technology and introducing resources that are within the means of the library that reflects the needs of the community. This is a collaborative approach. It's a lot to cover, but by the fourth year, I'd like to accomplish collaboration between board members and have a strong network to advocate for the library.

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

First and foremost, we are fiduciaries. Which means we have to do what's in the best interest of Frankfort taxpayers. It is a slow and steady process that has to look at the immediate, short-term and long-term goals and needs of the library. Spending to me is the people's voice, and I intend to vote on such ideas from that principal.

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?

Crime isn't something that I think is an issue, much in part because of Mayor Ogle's well-staffed and community driven police force. I think the continuation of Keith Ogle's leadership will be a top priority for him and the elected board.

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

My view is that Frankfort is an exceptional town. To be an exceptional town, it has to grow with purpose and intention. I remember when I was a kid the farm roads, small family-owned businesses and quaint feel. Frankfort has come a long way, and now we are in an exciting time of introducing new restaurants and dynamic businesses with owners who are just as passionate as I am with the development of Frankfort. In other words, Frankfort has certainly found its voice, and it resonates to other towns who all say, Frankfort is a special place to have dinner, enjoy quality time with family, and grow your business. The village has a deliberate vision to grow Frankfort, with Frankfort's high level of standards and due process when introducing new businesses. Nothing happens overnight but done right, it will continue to be the exception.

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?

I think we are growing in the right direction; however, parking seems to be an issue for businesses and residents. I think it's an issue that resonates with a lot of people, and I know the mayor and the current board are very much aware. In addition to parking, our infrastructure is in need of repair. Mayor Ogle and the board have addressed this issue and have more work to be done to ensure it is done with respect to Frankfort standards.

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

No reason that would inhibit my duty as a Frankfort Library Trustee

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

I am an optimistic person with a practical approach to situations. I like doing things right the first time, with careful consideration of all sides. My position is to make the Frankfort Library vibrant, relevant, and accessible to all!

Frankfort Election Guide: What’s On The Ballot, What To Know

Here are the candidates for Frankfort Library Board:

• Trustee, unexpired 2-year term (vote for two)
  • Lori Evenhouse
• Trustee (vote for four)
  • Karen Miner
  • Brooks Stenoish (incumbent)
  • Margaret Clemons-Adams
  • Emily Meszaros
  • Autumn Faris
  • Jeffrey Otway