Name: Verner ‘Vern’ Tepe

Position for which you are a candidate: Kane County Board District 22

 

Why are you seeking this position?

I’m running for re-election to the Kane County Board – District 22, on the West side of Elgin.

Two years ago when I ran for this office I stated that my main objectives will be to:

  • Advocate for renewable energy
  • Improve and enhance resources to address mental health issues
  • Expand services for seniors
  • Provide clean and affordable water throughout the county.

I’m happy to say that I have contributed to all four of these – and a lot more.

In the next few years, Kane County’s finances will be even more challenging.  My pledge will be to see that the residents of Kane County get THE MOST VALUE for the property, sales, & gas taxes that they pay.

 

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

I have an extensive business background in technology. This has given me experience in managing people, establishing and meeting objectives, and in fiscal responsibility. I served on the Elgin Township Board from 2016-2020. I am also a past Board Member of Family Service Association of Elgin, an organization that provides mental Health Services to Children.

I was elected, by my peers, to be Kane County’s Vice Chair in 2023. In that position I am involved in virtually all of the key issues that arise in the county. I’m often tasked by the Chair to see that a particular issue is properly resolved.

 

 

What will be your highest priorities if elected?

Establish fiscal responsibility in 5 areas:

EMPLOYEE RETENTION– We have experienced personnel whose salaries are so low in comparison to other counties that they are frequently recruited. We need to pay people a competitive wage.

INFLATION– Inflation’s impact on Kane County’s finances is even more dramatic. Rising wage costs will make it hard to retain and hire competent people. Increased costs for energy and services strain the budget. This is where my experience and strengths can be effective.

SAFE-T Act Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today Act: Illinois has enacted reforms that require all law personnel to wear body cameras. All recordings need to be stored and retrievable by the court, states attorney, and public defender. AND reviewed. The extra hours required to review these is expensive and requires additional personnel. Implementation of the SAFE-T Act is on-going.

MENTAL HEALTH– After COVID, the #1 health issue is Mental Health. We must provide the resources to deal with this. Our Health Dept has done an excellent job in working with support organizations throughout the county as well as providing a referral system (IRIS) that many of the organizations are using. We need to ensure that they have the resources to deal with health issues.

MIGRANT CRISIS– Although we have no authority in this area, we can provide resources through the Sheriff’s Office and Office of Emergency Management to ensure that anyone who is ‘DROPPED OFF’ in Kane County is safely delivered to the Welcome Centers in Chicago. I will make that happen!

 

 

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