Name: Kathleen Mahony

Position for which you are a candidate: Village of East Dundee Trustee

 

Why are you seeking this position?

I am seeking reelection to build on the momentum and trajectory of positive growth in diversified income streams within our unique mix of businesses and housing to keep property taxes low in East Dundee.

There is a definite learning curve in understanding how to most effectively work with the board, staff and all stakeholders within the legislative process. With my past experience, I have climbed that steep portion of the learning curve and am today more efficient and effective in the navigating and negotiation of policy making than my first appointment to trustee. Learning and applying the village code and legislative processes is an experience shared by all newly elected or appointed trustees or commissioners.

I am empathetic to the concerns and needs of my neighbors to keep our property taxes in check while and improving the quality of life with meaningful quality services. A concern I have heard repeatedly from residents is the need for a grocery store in East Dundee. Unfortunately, the economic equation of demographics and housing density does not meet the business formula for retail grocery chains within the borders of East Dundee. Facts: A 2022, USDA study found the average drive to the preferred grocery store was 4 miles. East Dundee is 2.9 square miles of land which is smaller in land area and the housing density of our neighbors. East Dundee is serviced by 3 grocery stores. Walmart C’ville is 1 mile from my home, Jewel WD is 1.9 miles and Woodmans C’ville is 3.9 away.

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

My record of committing time, skills and energy into my community is varied and long. I have worked as an East Dundee planning and zoning commissioner for 2 years; 3 partial terms as an appointed East Dundee village trustee by 3 different mayors/boards totaling 4 years; board member of the Township Visitors Center (aka The Depot) for 6 years and most recently I was elected as Village Trustee in 2019. It’s critical to study and understand any issue from multiple points of view, from village staff and fellow trustees, as well as residents, businesses and stakeholders.  While I may have an initial gut reaction to an issue, my due diligence ensures that we are crafting policy that is going to have the most benefit to the village as a whole. It is thrilling to collaborate with the energy and engagement of our new board members on their points of view, focus on projects important to them and together move the village forward in a way that benefits the community. Projects with renewed focus include redevelopment of the blighted industrial Haeger Pottery property; improvements to the riverfront, depot grounds and bike path for recreational purposes are due to the perspective the new board members bring to the village. My experience and knowledge earned from past participation and my current Trustee role will continue to serve the goals of protecting the investment of my home, keeping property taxes low and improving the quality of life of my community.

What will be your highest priorities if elected?

The first priority and financial challenge is funding the police pension up to the standards required by the state. The police pension is the only portion of property tax that appears on ED resident’s property tax statement. This year for the first time, the village general fund will contribute dollars to fund the amount recommended by our pension financial board and to change the practice of funding only through the pension property tax line.

The second is to make the village an attractive place to make investment in businesses and development. We are actively managing the transfer and redevelopment of blighted properties adjacent to single family residences and to our vibrant depot district. Fully realizing the potential of these underutilized properties, will benefit current residents and attract new residents, businesses and visitors.

The third is focusing on our strategic vision of making East Dundee a well-known, livable and walkable community. Fully connecting the recreational gifts of the Fox River bike path and the depot area with its unique small business to the Fox River riverfront and it potential. The riverfront project for recreational use and flood control will be a multi stage, multi year and we are already seeking grants to help fund through various regional state and federal programs and agencies.

 

Will you be attending the Candidate Night?  Yes

 

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