Meet Tammi Karam: Downers Grove Village Board Candidate

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Tammi Karam is running for a seat on the Downers Grove village board in the 2021 Consolidated Election, which is April 6. Below, you'll find Karam's answers to the Patch candidate questionnaire.

If you are a candidate for the April election, and would like to answer our Patch candidate questionnaire, email lisa.farver@patch.com.

Tammi Karam

Age (as of Election Day)

42

Town/City of Residence

Downers Grove

Office Sought

Village board or city council

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

NA

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

High School- Bradley Bourbonnais Community High School 1997

Occupation

Business Owner 16 years

Campaign website

https://www.facebook.com/Tammi...

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

No

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 Downers Grove is funding. Due to the changing economy, we must look for other sources of funding capital projects, as well as personal needs. I intend to be fiscally conservative and continue to look for ways to reduce our costs while looking at new sources of income.

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 will always support peaceful protests and reform. Black Lives Matter has been a controversial topic because there is such a varied perspective of the organization. My sister-in-law, who is of Asian-Indian descent, has enlightened me to the differences she has experienced due to the color of her skin. By listening to her, and others, I have learned that not everyone’s experiences in Downers Grove are the same. I think change begins with listening to one another and engaging in respectful dialogue.

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

Equality is having an awareness of, and responsiveness to, all peoples who compose this village. My husband settled in Downers Grove from Lebanon 34 years ago, not because he fit in with the demographics of Downers Grove, but because this village welcomed him. We should strive to be a town that identifies and highlights villagers' character, not physical appearance.

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?

My views vary on this topic. If mandating wearing masks in public areas and government buildings is helping the hospitals, doctors, and other health care professions properly take care of their patients, I believe the government should enforce this standard. I am also a strong believer in private businesses freedom to make decisions on what’s best for their company and health. Ultimately, this leaves the consumer to dictate the business owner’s decision.

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?

After speaking to local health care professionals and frontline workers, I feel that locally, our process has been successful, though not without fault. I understand the distribution process may be too technical for our senior population- an issue that will only be remedied through open dialogue as a community. I may not be aware of issues which may be important to others, serving as a good reminder that communication is always key in addressing new issues.

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

Having resided in both North, South, and unincorporated Downers, I bring insight into the council that no other candidate has. I have been a struggling single mom who was blessed by our local food pantry and social services to help keep my family fed both physically and emotionally. Persevering through those struggles and lots of hard work helped me to run a successful business in our downtown business district. My struggles as well as successes allow me to understand the wide variety of peoples embodying Downers Grove, as well as the businesses that support and bring a richness to our community.

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

We all make mistakes and fail; I am not without failure myself. Serving through these unprecedented times, I am thankful to our current board for giving of their time to help Downers Grove navigate in this unique season. My campaign is not about putting others down, spotlighting mistakes of failures. Rather, I am running as an opportunity to provide a new voice to the council. My experiences and straight forward approach will bring a new, diverse addition to the council.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Our world has completely changed in the last year- a reminder to all that no one can foresee what challenges may present themselves through the next few years. My experience as both a mother and business owner have taught me to listen to all sides of issues, do research, and make informed decisions rather than jumping to emotional conclusions. As a member of council, I will be fiscally conservative, honest with my views, and look at the ‘why’ behind decisions. I will be representing the people and community of Downers Grove, not my own personal interests or ideals.

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

I have played competitive sports since junior high and never once earned MVP. Instead, I have more “most dedicated” plaques than anyone I know. Anyone who knows me knows I exemplify energy and dedication in every situation. I may not have esteemed awards or trophies, but I am blessed to experience my successes daily.

I have helped run our brick-and-mortar retail business for 16 years. I am a mother of four strong-willed children who advocate for their beliefs. I have help leadership roles within the Chamber of Commerce, my parish, and local non-profits. Though I have no physical display of accomplishments, I have a record for my energy and ability to unite diverse peoples from a variety of backgrounds for a similar cause.

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

I would find immense success in keeping the tax burden off of property owners and increasing village revenue. Additionally, I intend to foster more relationships with our local non-profits, helping the community meet the needs of so many residents.

Why should voters trust you?

Trust is something earned, not something given. Voters shouldn’t trust me until they’ve done their research. Go talk to members of the Chamber of Commerce, local business owners in the downtown district, other business owners in Westmont and Lisle, or members of my Parish find out why they trust me. I hope to earn the trust of all those in the Village of Downers Grove through my common sense and honest approach to village issues.

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

Being fiscally conservative, I am continuously looking for ways to reduce spending. During my term, creating a balanced budget will be challenging, but not impossible. I would like to seek new revenue sources, as I value our taxpayer dollars. If we, as a village, cannot facilitate this, tax raises may occur.

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:

"Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you are.” -John Savini Jr., my father

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

I am straightforward and don’t hide behind anything; I own my actions and words. I don’t know it all, but am always willing to listen to new ideas and learn from others.