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NAME: Carol Rauschenberger

POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:

Elgin City Council

1.  Why are you seeking this position?

As a born ‘Elginite’ with a family legacy of civic involvement, I want to continue to see Elgin evolve in a positive way. I want Elgin to be a community where I am happy and comfortable raising my children. I am proud of my thoughtful service to the city in the last four years as a Councilperson. With a great staff and council, we have kept our finances secure in this time of uncertainty. I would like to serve another term to maintain a high level of services while having the opportunity to assist in creating our next Strategic and Comprehensive Zoning Plan that will set our course for the next 20+ years. I am honored to represent the citizens of Elgin in these important tasks.

2.  What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?

I have prior experience in local government budgeting, planning and policy making as I have served as a trustee for Elgin Township and the Village of Chelsea, Michigan. I have a record of involvement in a many organizations in Elgin and other communities. I have living experience in a variety of places, from Manhattan to the island of Saipan which gives me an expansive view of municipal problems and opportunities. I am a team player and work well with my colleagues on the council and the Elgin City staff. I also bring a unique perspective as a working mother with a professional and business background. I have an MBA in International Marketing.

3.  What will be your greatest challenge if elected?

Elgin remains in the midst of a state budget stalemate and may see possible changes nationally. Our strained financial resources require tough decisions in the next years. We need a dynamic budgeting process beginning now; a process that constantly seeks ways to cut expenses and identifies alternate revenue sources on a quarterly basis. We need to build on our strong business tax base that includes over 1 million new square feet in high standard industrial space, by filling it with new businesses and by supporting small Elgin businesses in new ways. To make our neighborhoods safe, clean and friendly; we must focus not only on code but on a more rigorous oversight of landlords.

Release for publication? YES

I will attend the forum? YES


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