Meet Evergreen Park Mayoral Candidate Shawn Good

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — Shawn Good is running for mayor of Evergreen Park upon the retirement of long-time Mayor James Sexton in the upcoming April 6 consolidated election. Good is a 49-year resident of Evergreen Park and is employed by the federal government. Early voting begins March 10.

Name: Shawn Good

Age (as of Election Day): 52

Town/City of Residence: Evergreen Park

Office Sought: Mayor

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race): Independent

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

I currently work for the federal government. My brother-in-law John Bender works for the Village of Evergreen Park, Street Department as a lead journeyman. Our family has a park named after my uncle, a commissioner in Tinley Park named Gory Park, My Mother retired in 2008 as secretary for the Mayor of Evergreen Park. She passed away in 2009.

Education: Master of arts in political and justice studies at Governor's State University; bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice; associate of science information management and an associate of arts at the Community College of the Air Force.

Occupation: United States Government paralegal specialist for 12 years, and a former federal officer for 8 years; and the Air National Guard of Illinois at Chicago O'Hare ARFF for 13 years.

Campaign website: Shawn4mayor.com

Previous or current elected or appointed office: Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).

The single most pressing issue facing the Village of Evergreen Park and this is what I intend to do about it: The most pressing issue of our village is the re-opening and expanding of our business district along our main corridor. I intend to support the approval of gaming licenses initially and continue to grow our business community through organic and alternative growth enterprises.

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 fully support peaceful protest. Any movement that constructively supports our Bill of Rights and U.S. Constitution is key to moving our community forward. I am sorry that there was a dark history in the U.S. and have visited with my family Fort Sumpter, the Underground Railroad in Charleston, S.C. and various plantations to experience our country's historical markers. I promise to treat all residents with dignity and respect. I was inspired by how great our village supported this movement through peaceful protests (however I did not participate due to my job’s current code of conduct).

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

No, specifically this current election will provide and equitable share in the decision-making of Evergreen Park because it will bring unity if new faces of mayor and trustees are elected.

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?

The federal government was slow to react which in turn helped to exacerbate the situation at hand. Common sense in accompaniment with both science and protection has been proven to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. We need to maximize both to keep business going and open the economy safely.

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?

Cook County is leading the way. It's smart to host Yukich Field coronavirus testing. Local governments need to utilize open space to help expand testing and vaccinations. I hope that a mass distribution will available soon.

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

I will serve as a full time Mayor 24/7/365. I am able and will commit 100 percent of my time to both the residents and businesses of Evergreen Park.

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

The current board has become stagnant in addressing the changing needs of our community.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

The SafeSpeed red light camera at 87th & Kedzie Ave. is a controversial hot button. I will give priority to current, ongoing litigation. Also, with the ever-changing demographics of our community, we need to ensure that the collective voice of all individuals is heard,

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

I have taken two oaths of office to protect citizens of the United States both from foreign and domestic enemies while preserving the constitution. I have a total of 33 years of public service.

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

Bringing all of our residents together while restoring our health and reopening business.

Why should voters trust you?

I have lived in Evergreen Park since 1972. I am an Air Force Veteran with a combined 33 years in federal service.

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

Transparency, review and reform of TIF, oversight and alleviating over burdensome residential taxes.

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

I plan to serve full term and full time.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

People will tell you what you want to know about themselves.

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

I grew up water-skiing on Lake Michigan, traveled extensively in Europe and the U.S. I love my family and living in Evergreen Park. Given where we are at in time, I feel that my voice and ideas are what Evergreen Park needs to succeed going forward.