Meet Crystal Lake City Council Candidate Mandy Montford

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — Four candidates are running for three open seats on the Crystal Lake City Council this election. Patch.com sent out questionnaires to all candidates.

Here are the responses for Mandy Montford:

Age (as of Election Day)

50

Town/City of Residence

Crystal Lake

Office Sought

Village board or city council

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

BA, Economics - Northwestern University

Occupation

Realtor - 9 years

Campaign website

n/a

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

I currently serve on the Crystal Lake City Council

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most pressing issue facing our city is to stabilize, offer assistance and opportunity to families and businesses that have been impacted by Covid-19. I intend to stay informed, and connect with members of our community to find out where the real needs lie, and how our city can offer further assistance. Through the 'Impacted Business Relief Grant Program,' Crystal Lake has been able to offer $750,000 of funds to small businesses in need. Families are in need too, especially for affordable housing. I support current Crystal Lake development initiatives, such as the development of the land at Main St./Crystal Lake Avenue, as well as the Lutter Center. These townhome and apartment developments will be an asset/attraction to Crystal Lake, and will also offer an opportunity for quality, affordable housing.

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

I absolutely support Black Lives Matter. It is time that we recognize the inherent worth and dignity of EVERY person, and pursue justice and compassion for our bothers and sisters of color. We need to acknowledge what has happened in America's history, openly discuss what racism looks like in our everyday lives, and work for change in our community and on a larger scale. I am a supporter of peaceful demonstration. Demonstrations which risk the lives of others and destroy businesses are not for me.
In my professional career I am held to a standard of equal opportunity and non-discrimination. It is something that I take very seriously.

Do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality, and if not, what specifically should be done to do so?

Diversity improves institutions. As our community becomes more diverse, I would love to see that diversity represented in government positions. There is definite room for growth here.

What are your thoughts on the national and local coronavirus response? Do you favor measures such as limiting operation of non-essential businesses and restricting indoor/outdoor dining? And do you favor a local mask mandate?

I am in favor of following the CDC guidelines, while doing the best we can to 'forge ahead' within the confines. We need to do what we can to keep businesses running, while keeping people safe. Limiting the risks of Covid-19 through the use of masks and distancing is an easy thing that we can all do to stay safe. Local businesses have been extremely creative in finding ways to continue to operate, while keeping the safety of employees and customers a priority.

What are your thoughts on the state and local coronavirus vaccine distribution, and how do you think local governments should work together to handle vaccine rollout?

I am not the expert here. I am a supporter of people getting vaccinated as soon as possible so that we can attempt to return to 'normal,' especially the vulnerable, and our front line heroes.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am not focused on the other candidates and their qualifications. I am 100% focused on what I can do to continue to improve our community. The past year has been an 'eye opener' in many ways. We need to continue to keep our eye on the ball, and be prepared for changes in the landscape. We are incredibly fortunate to have an experienced, first-rate City staff that has led us through challenges and triumphs. Collaborating and learning from City staff this past year has allowed me to engage in our community in an informed way.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

N/A, I am a current member of the Crystal Lake City Council.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I want to continue to protect, promote and enhance our City's unique resources. Given our extensive park network, our pristine lake, the Quarry Cable Park and Three Oaks Recreation Center, our award-winning library, top-rated schools, 2 Metra stations, vibrant downtown and Rte. 14 retail corridor, our community is first-class destination to live in and visit. I am also mindful of the costs of maintaining these resources, and know that we need to make pragmatic decisions when it comes to our tax payers' hard earned dollars.
Another issue that is important to me is job creation. A fundamental part of our community is having a vibrant, diverse workforce. I feel that we need to encourage businesses growth, and continue to seek new opportunity, as our City staff has done so successfully over the years. We need to be flexible, thoughtful and creative, as the business climate it constantly changing.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Starting as a young woman, I helped my mom grow a successful small business in Crystal Lake. I saw how this community rallied around her, and at that moment I knew Crystal Lake was a special place. I went on to graduate magna cum laude from Northwestern University with a degree in economics. I don't claim that I am the 'sharpest tack in the box', because for certain, I am not. But I have a strong work ethic, and my 'can-do' attitude has enabled me do some pretty cool things. While at NU, I played a varsity sport, and learned the importance of prioritization and commitment. I have run multiple small businesses in our community, while raising three children. Most importantly, I view myself as a 'builder.' I take pride in building relationships and making connections, both personally and professionally, and utilizing those relationships and connections to find ways to build others up.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

Full recovery from the pandemic, strong business growth, and broadening affordable housing options in Crystal Lake.

Why should voters trust you?

Short answer: ask anyone who knows me.
Longer answer: I am not a politician, and I have nothing to gain by being a part of the City Council. I want to remain a member of the City Council because it's my time to give back to the city that 'raised me.' I am a life-long Crystal Lake resident, and I believe in this city, and the people that make it great.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

First, I'll just say that it's been an honor to be on the City Council, and to have been entrusted with a 'say' in how taxpayer dollars are spent. Personally, I don't spend a dollar without thinking about it. I am fairly fiscally conservative by nature, but I also know that it takes resources to maintain and enhance a first-class community.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Knowledge will give you power, but character, respect.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am a lifelong Crystal Lake resident. My business is here, my family is here. I love this community. I would be incredibly honored to have your vote, and will always do my best to represent the fine citizens of Crystal Lake.