With a deep commitment to our community and a strong vision for its future, I am excited to announce my candidacy for Mayor of Morton Grove. I am eager to build upon the solid foundation established by Mayor DiMaria and guide our village toward continued growth and prosperity.
Our village has made significant strides over the past decade, laying the groundwork for progress. Now, it's crucial that we harness this momentum to elevate Morton Grove to new heights. My goal is to maximize the benefits of the 12% of your property taxes that support the Village, ensuring that every dollar is used effectively to enhance services and maintain our high quality of life.
I am passionate about continuing the responsible governance and forward-thinking leadership that has characterized our village administration. One of my key initiatives will be overseeing the completion of our new village hall, police department, and train station—projects that are essential to modernizing our infrastructure and improving accessibility for all residents. These projects will stand as enduring symbols of our commitment to progress and community well-being.
Fiscal prudence is at the heart of my approach to governance. I understand the importance of balancing low taxes with excellent service delivery. Over the past decade, we have worked diligently to build a robust tax base, and I am committed to continuing this effort. My focus will be on maintaining transparent budgeting and strategic planning to ensure that Morton Grove remains financially sound without placing an undue burden on residents.
My vision for Morton Grove encompasses a commitment to protecting our senior population, promoting sustainability, and fostering a vibrant sense of community. To support our senior residents, I propose expanding access to essential services such as senior wellness programs, transportation assistance, and social engagement opportunities. Ensuring that our senior citizens feel valued and supported is crucial for maintaining the high quality of life that Morton Grove is known for.
In addition to focusing on our seniors, I am dedicated to advancing sustainability efforts within our village. This includes enhancing and expanding our recycling programs to reduce waste and promote environmental stewardship. By investing in green technologies and encouraging community-wide participation in sustainability initiatives, we can minimize our ecological footprint and set an example for responsible living. This will involve not only improved waste management practices but also educational campaigns to increase awareness and participation in recycling and conservation efforts.
Fostering a strong sense of community is equally important. I envision a Morton Grove where residents are actively engaged and connected through a variety of outreach initiatives and community-building activities. This includes expanding local events, creating more opportunities for civic involvement, and supporting local organizations that bring people together. By enhancing these programs and ensuring they are inclusive and accessible to all, we can build a more cohesive and supportive environment where every resident feels a sense of belonging and pride in their community.
Together, these efforts will contribute to an even more inclusive, unified Morton Grove—one that values and supports its residents while also leading the way in environmental responsibility. Through these initiatives, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and where our collective efforts drive us toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
I believe I am uniquely qualified for this position due to my extensive experience serving our village since 2007. I began my journey on the Economic Development Commission, where I gained invaluable insights into the realities of commercial business and the intricacies of fostering economic growth. This role allowed me to understand the vital role commerce plays in our community and the importance of strategic planning to attract and retain businesses in Morton Grove.
Subsequently, I served on the Plan Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals, where I deepened my understanding of the village's code and zoning regulations. This experience equipped me with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of urban planning and development, ensuring that our growth is both responsible and sustainable.
Since 2013, I have had the privilege of serving as a Trustee, where I have gained comprehensive experience in all aspects of village government. My tenure as Trustee has allowed me to work closely with various departments, collaborate with dedicated staff, and engage with residents to address their concerns and aspirations. Along the way, I have built strong connections within our community, earning the trust and support of residents who have encouraged me to run for Mayor. I am beyond proud and grateful to have earned Mayor DiMaria’s endorsement, as well.
In my professional life as Director of Operations, I’ve honed skills in strategic planning, resource management, and team leadership. These skills are directly transferable to the role of Mayor of Morton Grove. My experience in overseeing complex projects, optimizing workflows, and managing budgets will enable me to efficiently address the village's needs and implement effective policies. My ability to lead diverse teams and coordinate across departments will help foster collaboration and drive positive change in the community. Overall, my operational expertise will provide a strong foundation for ensuring that Morton Grove continues to run smoothly and effectively.
As your Village Trustee for the past 12 years, I have had the honor of working closely with many of you and addressing the needs and aspirations of our community. Your support and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me. As I seek the role of Mayor, I ask for your continued confidence and support. With your vote, I am committed to building on our successes, ensuring responsible governance, and guiding Morton Grove towards an even brighter future. Thank you for your trust and for the opportunity to serve as your next Mayor.
