Wheeling Township Supervisor Candidate: Michael Schroeder

Patch wants to help you get to know your candidates for Wheeling Township supervisor. 

Michael Schroeder

Age: 58

Family: Wife, Cindy, Children- Sara, Emily, Nathan, and Jacob

Education: St Viator High School 1972, University of Notre Dame BS Preprofessional 1976, University of Illinois Dental School DDS 1980.

Occupation: General Dentist, President/Owner Arlington Heights Dental Group.

Previous elected or appointed offices: Trustee Village of Arlington Heights; President, Village of Arlington Heights, Wheeling Township Republican Committeeman; Wheeling Township Supervisor, Arlington Heights Park District Foundation Board member, Northwest Community Hospital Dental Advisory Committee, Mobile Dental Clinic Committee, TRIP Chairperson.

Position sought: Wheeling Township Supervisor

Political party: Republican

What is the primary reason you are running for this office? I seek re-election to continue with goals to deliver much needed human care services, in a cost effective manner, with no increases to the taxpayers.  With my leadership, and a staff of professional service providers and generous volunteers, Wheeling Township has been able to keep property taxes to a minimum – the average homeowner pays just $65 per year – so that we can provide a myriad of services for low-income individuals, families, those with disabilities and senior citizens.    

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected? My primary mission is to maintain and increase the Wheeling Township Transportation program.  With the projected increase in life expectancy, and the aging of our local population, the demand for services will grow.  Keeping senior citizens independent, safe and mobile as they face challenges associated with aging, is my most important priority.  Last year Wheeling Township provided over 26,000 door-to-door rides, the vast majority for medical appointments and dialysis treatment.  Partnerships with PACE, the Village of Arlington Heights, and other agencies allow us to keep the cost affordable.  A state grant also supplements our program so that medical rides can be provided outside township boundaries.

What are the top three issues facing Wheeling Township residents?  1) Transportation – see above.  2) Assisting those in financial crisis.  Because of the downed economy and the great numbers of unemployed/underemployed, we have seen a substantial increase in those asking for help.  State Statutes require townships to provide General Assistance, a program that helps low income individuals and families with a wide range of services that include assistance with food, rent, utilities, and medical services, etc.   Our recently expanded food pantry experiences over 400 visits per month.  No tax dollars are used to fund the pantry - all food is donated by the community and the facility is staffed with hardworking, dedicated volunteers.  3) Education.  Most don’t know about township government until they need us.  Under my leadership, Wheeling Township will continue to strive to educate the public about our services as well as the services available on a local, state and national level.  We will continue to improve Wheeling Township’s award winning newsletter and website, and strive for full transparency for the public.  

What sets you apart from the other candidate?  My experience as a business owner, former Arlington Heights Trustee and Mayor, as well as my involvement in many community organizations, has prepared me to responsibly and efficiently address policies, budgets, and levies.  I have a deep understanding of the issues facing our residents, a strong historical perspective, and believe my extensive involvement in the community contributes to increased donations and volunteerism.

Anything else you would like to add? Wheeling Township is a model for other townships and has won numerous state awards for innovative programs. In addition, the Mobile Dental Clinic has won the Governor’s Home Town award and I am the recipient of the 2004 Township Officials of Illinois Supervisor of the Year award.