Mokena Village Council Candidate: Terry Germany

Candidate Name: Terry G. Germany

Age (as of Election Day): 61

Town/City of Residence: Mokena Il.

Office Sought: Village Council Board Member

Party Affiliation: Independent

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Education: High School

Occupation: Construction, 32 years

Campaign Website: None

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Planning and Zoning Committee/Architectural Plan Review Committee.

What are the most pressing issues facing the village and what do you intend to do about them? I want to make sure that we maintain the reputation that has been built for fiscal accountability and responsibility.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? Each person brings with them independent thinking with a diverse set of viewpoints.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)? The current board has put us on the right track, I would like to continue pursuing our fiscal responsibility.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform: I would like to continue to advance Mokena's public safety and anti-crime effort.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? In the 1990s, I was a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission and currently have a position on P&Z and Architectural Plan Review Committee. I feel the years I have spent as an appointed member have helped me understand the process of the inter-workings of Mokena. I also was part of Mokena Strong to help our residents in their time of need during the pandemic. I own a construction company and understand the operations of a business.

Why should voters trust you? You have my pledge that I will begin each day with a commitment to do what is right for Mokena taxpayers. That’s why I'm proud to be running on the F.O.M. team.

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

A lot of politicians and candidates talk about taxes, spending, and building a bright future for their communities. F.O.M. have focused on that and that is why Mokena is in the best financial shape and I pledge to continue that path into the future.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending, and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking? I would continue our fiscal responsibility policies, keep a focus on ensuring safe drinking water and keep bringing meaningful development into the Village of Mokena. Continue to create responsible policies to attract businesses to further enhance our commercial tax base.

Do you support the Illinois assault weapons ban, and would you support a local assault weapons ban in this community? Before I offer an opinion, I'm waiting for the courts to decide.

Do you support Black Lives Matter, and do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality? If not, what specifically should be done to do so? I support equality for all races and genders.

Do you support the SAFE-T Act? Why or why not? I support the majority of the act, however, I have a concern with certain aspects like cashless bail.

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 have a professional Police Force in Mokena headed by Police Chief Brian Benton. We have a strong law enforcement presence throughout our community, and it will be enhanced through our soon-to-be-completed police station.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development? Friends of Mokena has pursued policies that brought in new business in the past year and has increased our commercial tax base and made it possible to pay for new upgrades in lighting village parking aesthetics, and pensions funds for police and fire.

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 also want to see purposeful planning and development of the Village Downtown area that builds the community economic base while enhancing the property values.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family? No

What is the best advice ever shared with you? Work hard and do your best!

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I'm a hard worker and I pledge to work hard for the People of Mokena!