Name: Steve Thoren

Position for which you are a candidate: Elgin Council Member

Why are you seeking this position?

Elgin is a great place to live. And I believe that we are all in this together. From our homes to our neighborhoods, from east to west, north and south, we want Elgin to be strong now and in the future. I’m running for Elgin City Council, which would be by second term in office, to help continue creating long-term plans for our city. Plans that promote safe neighborhoods and sustainable economic development, equity for all and a sense of positive community identity. I’m running for city council to work on core infrastructure needs. I will work every day to make a great city even greater. I’m running for city council because I love our city. When you love something, you step up, you fight for it, and try to do what ever it takes to make it better. I’m running for city council to serve all Elgin residents and work hard on their behalf. To return their texts, telephone calls and emails. To keep them informed. To address their concerns quickly and effectively. When we work together, we can move Elgin forward, not only for ourselves, but also for your children and grandchildren. And that’s certainly something worth working for. Working together.

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

I am a lifelong Elgin resident and a longtime community volunteer. I know this city from the inside out. I know its neighborhoods and I know the people who live in those neighborhoods. Having served on the city council since 2021, I have gained a great deal of experience in ways to continue helping move our city forward. I also am an effective public speaker, which helps greatly in addressing our city council meetings. Being able to express your thoughts clearly and persuasively can help you make a lasting impact on the council members and the larger community as a whole. I have a strong business background. I’m a taxpayer advocate who understands and appreciates the concerns of our residents, all our residents. I’m an independent, nonpartisan voice for Elgin, working to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and that city government operates effectively.

What will be your highest priorities if elected?

My highest priority for Elgin remains the same as it was when I was first elected four years ago. I believe in building a stronger, safer community. We need to do what ever we can to support our police officers and firefighters to promote safe neighborhoods. And we need to support investments that allow public safety to do more with less. Neighborhood planning is an important component to enhance public safety. Safe streets in a city of diverse cultures and wonderful neighborhoods is and always will be my top priority. In addition, I am a very strong advocate for our senior community and our military veterans. I will continue to do everything I can to help those essential populations. They are top priorities. On the city council, I am generally regarded as “The Voice for Seniors”.

I will participate in the candidate meet & greet:

 

Return to 2025 Consolidated Election Voter Guide responses

Campaign Policy

Elections and voting are core concerns for the League of Women Voters. Year in and year out, Leagues are committed to providing fact-based information about issues and the positions candidates take on those issues to help voters make their own decisions and participate in the process.

The League of Women Voters never supports or opposes candidates for office or political parties. Any use of the League of Women Voters name in campaign advertising or literature has not been authorized by the League.