Name: Ted Penesis
Position for which you are a candidate: Kane County Board District 16
Why are you seeking this position?
An area resident for over 20 years, I had many choices on where to live, and Kane County immediately felt like home. I love living here and this unique opportunity will allow me to give back for all I have received as a resident of this community.
Like many government entities, Kane County will be facing some daunting fiscal challenges in the coming years. I want to be a part of the decision-making process and be certain our choices for critical funding issues reflect the needs and desires of Kane County residents and business owners.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
As a long-time public servant, I have a successful track record working across multiple industries over the past 30+ years. Public service is my passion; I am always looking for ways to help people. I am not a career politician.
Most recently. I served as statewide Director of Community Outreach for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, where I helped develop and promote programs to expand “green/outdoor opportunities” for Illinois families as well as improve the health of Illinois natural areas. Previously, at the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, I worked on workshop programs designed to help deter young people from substance abuse and make better choices in addition to ensuring the restaurant and hospitality industry provided proper and safe alcohol service.
What will be your highest priorities if elected?
I will be an active advocate for all Kane County residents and business owners. As previously mentioned, the County Board will be making some difficult financial decisions in the coming years. Because of this, I will devote myself full-time to ensure county residents are not negatively affected by these fiscal challenges.
Without question, we need to fund the services that protect and expand the quality of life we all enjoy in Kane County. Our residents deserve and expect no less. But we also have a special responsibility to keep a close eye as to how we spend “other people’s money.”
It will be a true honor to serve on the Kane County Board. I believe this unique opportunity will allow me to continue and expand upon my lifelong commitment to helping others. I pledge to be an intellectually active servant, looking for prudent solutions that will move Kane County forward.
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