Community Corner
Political Party Profile: We the People of Countryside (Sponsored)
Barbara Gleespen say the party's mission is, "insuring residents' voices are heard."
This Patch article is sponsored by We the People of Countryside Party. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.
Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Barbara Gleespen of We the People of Countryside Party.
Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization.
Barbara Gleespen: We are a group of residents that have come together to return Countryside to honest representation, fiscal responsibility and community focused leadership.
Patch: How long have you been doing business in town, or how long has your organization been around in the community?
Gleespen: Since 2022
Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?
Gleespen: We started the organization after learning that the city of Countryside is over $50,000,000 in debt, but most importantly because the current administration ignored the residents' and city advisory board's opinions and concerns. For the past eight years there has been only one party in power and we belief there should be a system of checks and balances in place.
Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?
Gleespen: Insuring residents' voices are heard.
Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?
Gleespen: Finding out how little the residents know about how the city is run.
Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?
Gleespen: Educating the residents to the reality of what has been going on.
Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?
Gleespen: We are focused on working for the people to make the city of Countryside a great place to live. We also will fully support our businesses and work diligently to bring in more businesses that will be a great fit for our community.
Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?
Gleespen: Never give up, always do what is right and be kind.
Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about? If so, what details can you share and what makes it so exciting?
Gleespen: Our goals are many, here are a few if elected: review and improve building codes to avoid causing undue hardship on residents, businesses and builders/developers. Restructure the police department to increase patrol officers by 20% per shift for greater presence on the street. Record and videotape city council meetings for full transparency. Guarantee our military veterans receive all benefits protected by the state of Illinois. Replace outdated street signs with reflective signs that meet the current code.
Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?
Gleespen: WTPOC.org and Facebook.
Additional Notes:
Gleespen: The current administration supported the development of a truck stop at the corner of 55th and East Avenue (the old city hall). This includes underground installation of gas tanks NEXT to the city's water supply lines while on-going blasting from the nearby quarries happens almost daily in the summer. GAS, WATER, AND DYNAMITE SHOULD NOT BE MIXED! It will substantially increase noise, pollution, crime and traffic at an already busy intersection.
