Name: Cherryl Fritz Strathmann
Position for which you are a candidate:
Kane County Board District 20
Why are you seeking this position?
I have been active and engaged in this community for many years. Elgin and Kane County has a rich history of diversity, community and inclusion. I value the ethics and involvement of so many people. When asked by Senator Cristina Castro to run for the board, I decided I had the love of my community, the passion to do the work, and the willingness serve the people in an even greater capacity than before.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
Although this is my first time to run for any elected position, I am not new to being active and involved in my community. I first got involved with the ERA as a young mom in 1973.It was there I learned about the importance of a collective voice, and how to hold a non violent protest. I discovered the importance of working for the common good, and the excitement of finding like minded people who were willing to serve their community. I have served on the Citizens Advisory Committee for U-46 Schools, I was a docent for Kane County Forest Preserve District ,and I am currently a Master Gardener through U of I Extension. I have passed petitions, marched and advocated for issues that I felt affected my family and my community. In 2007, I got involved in the campaign to elect Barack Obama. That started with phone banking, and progressed to knocking on doors in 4 states. We have hosted fundraisers and National Night Out gatherings at our house.
What qualifies me to run for the Board seat is a passion to serve my community, willingness to do the hard work, and the ability to listen to the people and their needs. I have lived in Elgin since I was a young child, and in district 20 since 1977. I am a graduate of U-46 schools, raised my kids here, who are also U-46 grads, and opened a small business in1991. I have recently volunteered to sit on the Community Advisory Board created by Chief Anna Lalley. I know and love my community.
What will be your highest priorities if elected?
The Kane County Board works to set policies that affect our everyday lives. This is a very difficult time for many. With a pandemic happening, my first priority will be to the health and well-being of the people of Kane County. Many families are struggling more than usual to make ends meet, and to put food on the table. Some are worried about paying the rent or mortgage. because we are in unusual times. I want to make sure the Covid 19 relief funds are reaching the those that need it most. There are many other issues that will require the attention of the Board, such as clean, safe drinking water, affordable housing, water for the western part of Kane County, transportation and infrastructure to assure safety for all live and work in Kane County. But the immediate concerns are working to protect our citizens during the pandemic.
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