Name: Steve Thoren
POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:
Elgin City Council
Why are you seeking this position?
I am a third generation Elgin resident. I have volunteered and continue to volunteer with more than two-dozen local clubs, groups and not-for-profit organizations. I want to give back to the city that has given so much to me. I want to represent my community with a positive, proactive attitude. I have an inclusive skill set, which I think is necessary to help move our city forward. At a time when Elgin desperately needs increased solidarity across many different demographic lines, an ongoing sense of division and divisiveness limits our civic opportunities. We are many, but to become and remain one we must cultivate our capacity to imagine each other’s lives as generously and openly as possible as community members.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
As a lifelong Elgin resident, my financial experience, my years of community service and my resolute desire to make the city I love the best that it can be are good places to start. In addition, I’ve worked with most of the current council members on various local projects. No other candidate in this particular race comes close to my civic involvement. Not even close. I know Elgin. I know the people of Elgin–young and old, male and female, black, white, Latino and Laotian. I have an ability to listen respectfully and weigh differing opinions. I work hard. I understand the bottom line on projects and programs. I also understand that there’s a difference between a city’s wants and its needs.
What will be your greatest challenge if elected?
Elgin has come a long way in this millennium, but we remain on the frontline of many challenges, including trying to heal from the inside out after the shooting of Decynthia Clements last year. We must not lose our perspective. Elgin has a great community police force. I stand by our police force. I’m proud of my communication skills. I’d like to bring local leaders, church groups and the police together in a series of community forums. That would be the first step in the right direction. Another major challenge is continuing to address our aging infrastructure. We need to maintain our roads and bridges. We need to maintain our sewers and water supply.
Will you attend the March 9th Elgin Candidate Forum? Yes, I will attend the forum
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