Survey and Interview Responses

Why are you running for this office?

I am running for this position to support the Star Fire Protection District. After three failed levies during a period of record growth, I investigated the situation to understand what the levy is about and why it is needed. I now aim to work with state and local legislators to ensure growth pays for growth, as levies are unpopular and unfairly burden long-time residents. While I respect the desire to control property taxes, essential services provided by the fire district must be able to grow with the community without burdening existing residents. Growth should pay for itself.

What are your qualifications?

My background in the fire service, working fire prevention as a fire marshal, and prior service as a park board commissioner offers a unique dual perspective that will be invaluable in the role of commissioner. During my time as a fire marshal, I supervised a staff of fire inspectors. As a park board commissioner, I oversaw an operation with an annual budget of over $12 million dollars. My extensive background includes working with firefighters, fire administration, building departments, city administration, planning departments and commissions, builders, developers, property managers, architects, engineers, schools, community groups, individual residents, law enforcement, code enforcement, and state and local elected officials.

If elected, what are your goals?

My main goal would be to ensure that Star Fire Protection District is equipped to provide the level of service needed and expected by our community. To assist them in any way possible/needed within my capacity as a commissioner.

What experience do you have serving on boards, commissions, non-profits, etc. where you have been of service to others?

I have served on the following boards:
– Illinois Fire Inspectors Association Executive Board
– Illinois Fire Inspectors Association Fire & Life Safety Education Committee
– Illinois Association of Park Districts Executive Board (as a Trustee)
– Plainfield Park District Board of Commissioners (as a Commissioner, Past Board Vice President, and President)
During my ten years on the Plainfield Park District Board, I was elected for two terms and received Master Board Member Certification from the Illinois Association of Park Districts.

Do you consider yourself fiscally conservative?

Yes, being fiscally conservative is the only way to be, especially when working with tax dollars. There is no excuse for wasteful spending in government.

Do you consider yourself socially conservative?

Yes, I was raised in a Catholic household and currently attend Holy Apostles Catholic Church in Meridian. Ethics and integrity are important to me.

What do you believe is the most critical issue facing Star Fire District right now, and how would you address it?

Funding is the most critical issue. The levy has failed several times. If it passes this November, we can staff our new fire house. If it doesn’t pass, I will work with State Legislators to revisit HB 389 with respect to how it affects fire districts and especially Star due to our rapid growth. Going forward, overall, I don’t like the levy process and want to see HB 389 amended to allow growth to fund growth for the fire district.

How will you communicate w/the public in Star given that the Levy failed but there is still the need to fund the manning the station? What is your plan to man the fire station so Star has the necessary fire protection?

To secure the levy’s passage, we must effectively communicate its importance, many people are unaware of the effect HB 389 has had on Star Fire’s ability to grow with our community. Additionally, I will engage with legislators to amend HB 389 for fire districts. And look into grant opportunities for additional funding.

What do you look for when hiring a fire chief?

Our current fire chief is doing a great job and is expected to remain in the position for some time. Any future fire chief would need to demonstrate strong capabilities in managing the agency’s growth, as Star is projected to expand in the coming years. Key qualifications would also include fire service experience, a strong educational background, effective interpersonal skills, budget management expertise, and a commitment to ongoing training.

What would cause you to fire a fire chief?

A fire chief could be dismissed for mismanagement or, unequivocally, for inappropriate or egregious behavior.

How will you support the well-being and mental health of our firefighters, who often deal with high-stress situations?

Firefighters endure incredibly stressful and emotionally taxing work due to the nature of their experiences. Numerous national organizations offer support, and the Fire Fighters Union provides a wealth of resources. Additionally, in Illinois, pastors were available to assist firefighters in this capacity.

What steps will you take to ensure that firefighters have the training, tools, and equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.

Dedicated funding is essential to support the ongoing training needs of firefighters. This includes having a dedicated Training Officer and utilizing the training center conveniently located between Star and Middleton at Fire Station 52.

Fire departments often face tight budgets. How do you plan to ensure that the department has the necessary resources to operate effectively in the next 5-10 years?

Budgeting and prioritizing expenses are critical when funding is limited. The Fire Chief maximizes the available budget, as demonstrated by refurbishing older engines instead of buying new ones and the construction of Fire Station 55 using impact fees.

How would you ensure that the fire department is prepared for large-scale emergencies, including natural disasters or mass casualty events. How would you ensure interagency collaboration with police, EMS, and other first responders in a crisis?

Emergency plans and programs are currently established, and we collaborate with local cities through the Ada County deputies who serve as our police department. I am also aware of MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System), and the fire chief has confirmed that Star has a similar system in place.

What role do you see technology playing in modern firefighting, and how can it improve efficiency and safety? Also are there any new technologies that you would advocate for to improve the department’s capabilities?

I am a strong proponent of modern technology, which has advanced significantly over the past decade. For example, thermal imaging cameras enhance safety and provide firefighters with critical information during structure fires. Drones are extremely valuable for monitoring wildland fires. In addition to modern technology, there’s been considerable advancements regarding health and safety for firefighter’s gear. Furthermore, dispatching processes are also benefiting from technological advancements.

Lastly, why do you think you are the best choice for Star fire commissioner?

My heart is in the Fire Service. I have experience working in the fire service as well as experience serving on a board of commissioners. My extensive background includes working with firefighters, fire administration, building departments, city administration, planning departments and commissions, builders, developers, property managers, architects, engineers, schools, community groups, individual residents, law enforcement, code enforcement, and state and local elected officials. I want to help resolve our funding issues and help secure Star Fire District’s finances for the future.