Meet Alison Pure-Slovin: Candidate For Skokie Trustee, District 2

SKOKIE, IL — Current Skokie Trustee Alison Pure-Slovin is running to represent District 2 in the April 1 election.

Pure-Slovin has served 12 years as Midwest Director at the Simon Wiesenthal Center. She is running for District 2 Trustee against Nathan Norman.

Learn more about Pure-Slovin and her goals for Skokie:

Age (as of Election day)

67

Campaign website

slovinforskokie.com

Education

Columbia College

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

One of the most pressing issues facing our board is rat abatement. Rat abatement is an important responsibility as it directly impacts public health and sanitation. To help mitigate the problem, I propose we educate the residents about proper waste disposal, food storage, and other practices that help prevent rat infestations. We also need to review our infrastructure maintenance such as sewers and waste management systems to prevent rats from finding entry points and nesting areas. We should strengthen our systems to monitor rat activity and encourage residents to report sightings in public areas so that the village rat abatement team can respond quickly to infestations.

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

I have respect for my opponent and for all those who run for local elected office. I am running a positive campaign based on my record as Trustee, focusing on environmental issues (we need to consider banning plastic bags and Styrofoam), stronger education about the pressing need to recycle and compost, economic development, stronger rat abatement, building bridges between our diverse population and additional bicycle lanes throughout the village.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I serve on the Economic Development Commission (EDC) and the Public Safety Commission. I asked to serve on the EDC because I believe it plays a crucial role in the village's growth and prosperity. The EDC works to attract new businesses and supports existing one, leading to job opportunities for residents. Also, by boosting local businesses, the EDC increases the village's tax base, which provides an increase in funds for public services and infrastructure. I also requested to serve on the Public Safety Commission as it is vital to the village as it ensures the safety and security of residents by overseeing, supporting and improving our first responders departments. This commission is vital in building trust in the community by fostering transparency and community between public safety departments and residents, to successfully collaborate within the community.

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

I introduced a referendum for the Nov. 2024 General Elections to impose term limits for Skokie elected officials that was approved by voters. I continue to advocate for economic development and work to build bridges between diverse communities. In addition, I am accessible to the residents, listen to their concerns and work toward a solution

Why should voters trust you?

Voters should trust me as their representative, as I have proven myself as an ethical and honest leader in my role as trustee. In addition, I am a human rights activist with a proven record of championing for all people whether on the local level or in Springfield working with our State elected officials/legislators.

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

A successful trustee is one who leaves a positive and lasting impact on the village, improving the community's overall well-being and setting the stage for continued growth. Some of the key components are: 1. Fiscal responsibility: successfully managing the village's budget and maintaining or improving the village's financial health. 2. Infrastructure improvements: we need to review our current structure, as evidenced by the recent water main break 3. Community engagement: elected officials need to build strong relationships with residents, encouraging public participation and fostering a sense of community 4. Transparency and accountability: ensuring open communication with residents

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

The village board/elected officials have significant responsibilities when it comes to fiscal policy and the handling of taxpayers dollars. We must monitor government spending and revenue collection, ensuring transparency and accountability. It is imperative that we review the village's budget and ensure that taxpayers dollars are allocated efficiently to meet the community's needs. We should also develop and implement policies that influence economic conditions to foster a stable and prosperous community.

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?

As Skokie is known to have one of the most respected law enforcement departments, I am confident that our local police are maintaining law and order, preventing crime and ensuring the safety of residents. Their presence in the community helps deter criminal activity. Supporting our police also involves advocating for accountability and constructive support leads to promoting a safer and cohesive community.

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

As a member of the Economic Development Commission, I am confident in the village's approach to commercial and residential development. The village staff is doing an excellent job in revitalizing commercial areas like downtown Skokie and the Main St. corridor. We are also working to enhance our residential development, like the new townhouses that will be built on Main street.

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?

Many residents are concerned about affordable housing, which is why I support "fee in lieu" for future developments. Fee in lieu is an excellent financial mechanism to manage the impact of new developments. The fees collected can be used to enhance older housing stock, support affordable housing initiatives, enhance public infrastructure, and/or fund other community projects that benefit residents.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

The best advice anyone ever shared with me was to remember that we live in a diverse village which is still somewhat segregated, and it is my job as trustee to work toward bringing communities together and to remember that as a trustee I represent ALL people!

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

I am here to serve the people. I take my responsibility seriously and listen to the many opinions of the residents. I must carefully weigh out the opinions of the voters with the recommendations of the village staff to help create policy that strengthens the Village of Skokie.