Name: Ismael Cordová
Position for which you are a candidate: Elgin City Council
Why are you seeking this position?
As a lifelong resident of the city of Elgin, a first-generation Mexican American, and a committed public servant with a demonstrated track record of community advocacy, I bring a unique perspective to the race for city council. As the youngest candidate on the ballot, I believe that incorporating the voices and perspectives of young people is essential for ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for our residents. My personal and professional experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation of qualifications and expertise, and I am deeply passionate about improving the quality of life in our community. With my enthusiasm and drive, I am eager to bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, working towards creating a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents of the city of Elgin.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I am proud to bring to the race for city council a unique and valuable perspective honed through my diverse and extensive experiences both within and outside of the traditional political arena. Despite not having the privilege of serving on boards, commissions, or non-profits unlike my fellow candidates, I have made it a personal mission to give back to my community, serving on the Elgin Hispanic Network Board of Directors, the Elgin Police Department Community Advisory Board, Kane County’s Community Leadership Team on Pre-Arrest Diversion, and the Elgin Community College Alumni Advisory Board. In addition, my previous role as Vice-Chair of the City of Elgin’s Community Task Force on Policing provided me with a thorough understanding of the issues confronting our community as well as the skills required to effectively address them. These experiences, combined with my desire to improve the quality of life for all residents, make me an excellent candidate for the city council. Similarly, my extensive work history has honed my ability to understand the complex needs of diverse communities, including serving individuals living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Lewy Body disease. Currently, as an administrative professional at a multi-site federally qualified health center, I am committed to providing underserved communities throughout 55 Illinois municipalities with access to essential healthcare services.
What will be your highest priorities if elected?
As a values-driven candidate, I am committed to prioritizing goal-oriented policies that will better our residents’ lives and ensure a sustainable future for future generations. If elected to the city council, my top priorities will be to improve public safety, utilities, and sustainability for a better quality of life; to ensure financial stability and promote business development; to build a coalition of united, non-partisan leadership; to increase the public’s trust in their government; to address the critical issues of housing insecurity and homelessness; and to take a person-centered approach to assist residents with mental health issues. I am confident that by combining innovative thinking and collaboration, we will be able to address these significant challenges and create a brighter future for all members of our community.
Will you be attending the Candidate Night? Yes
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