Meet Frankfort Township Trustee Candidate: Michelle Domecki

FRANKFORT, IL — Michelle Domecki is one of eight candidates running for four open positions for trustee on the Frankfort Township Board. Domecki has a degree in social science and works for the University of Chicago as an educational manager. She has also served as a precinct committee person.

Domecki recently filled out the Patch candidate survey, and her answers can be found below:

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

Name:

Michelle Domecki

Age (as of Election Day)

52

Town/City of Residence:

Frankfort Square

Office Sought:

Township board

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

Democrat

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education:

I earned a B.A. in Social Science with a minor in Public Administration from Ashford University. Later, I went on to earn a Certificate in Project Management from the University of Chicago Graham School.

Occupation:

I have worked at the University of Chicago for over 25 years. I am an Educational Manager who administers research training programs include high school, undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral students/trainees.

Campaign website: Can be found here, and here.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Frankfort Township Committee person Precinct 14 (elected and appointed)

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

I am dedicated to bringing fresh ideas to Frankfort Township. We strongly believe in transparency, which is lacking with the current board. Taxpayers deserve to know where their hard-earned money is being spent.

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?

Yes – black lives matter. I’m not sure of the context of this question. If you are asking me if I support people in our society who have been oppressed and have been treated unfairly - then yes – I do support BLM. Why shouldn’t people of color be able to express their concerns and ask to be treated with respect and equity?

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

I believe the Township Board should be willing (as I would be) to have an open dialogue on this subject. We should offer workshops and invite speakers to educate our board and the community on racial issues. Racial issues are everywhere – we cannot deny it. There are many educational opportunities that we could use to ensure we have an inclusive and equitable community.

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?

N/A

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’ve worked with researchers for over 25 years – I believe in science, and I trust data. I respect everyone’s opinion, but when it comes to public safety we need to be on the same page. Unfortunately, the pandemic was manipulated and quickly became a political issue. The pandemic shouldn’t be a political talking point—it’s a public health crisis.

There is always room for improvement, but I believe the leadership in our state has done a good job. The current Township board has not addressed the issue, which is absolutely unacceptable. Currently there is no information or direction on the website or other social media that gives our citizens any information.

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

The current board has served for several years, and I believe it’s time for a new perspective. To move forward and grow as a community, we need new ideas and people. I am dedicated to making our community more inclusive. I believe everyone deserves to benefit from a strong and competent Township.

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

One of the greatest failings of the current board is an overall lack of transparency. The website is extremely out of date, and they have very little social media presence. This gives the impression township benefits only go to those who are in the know, as if it is an exclusive club and not local government meant to serve us all. Another issue – where is the comprehensive communication with our Township regarding Covid-19? Our seniors especially should be notified of the status of vaccine availability – not just a “check in.” We could be doing so much more to ensure the wellness of our community members.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Our Fresh Ideas for Frankfort Township Slate is running on the issues of transparency, accountability, and community enrichment. We strongly believe these issues should be the basis of a new and improved Frankfort Township board.

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

I am dedicated to community work. I’m a volunteer with the American Cancer Society (ACS) who has served on the leadership team for ACS Relay for Life events in our community for the past 5 years. I am the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN) lead advocate for Congressional District 1. With ACSCAN, I’ve worked with our local, state and federal representatives to change policy that affects cancer patients, survivors, and their families. I am very proud of my work with the Illinois team who helped move the Tobacco 21 bill into law in 2019. I believe elected officials are our partners for the better good of Illinois citizens and even if you don’t agree on every issue - a common ground can be found. Additionally, this past year I began volunteering (along with my son Nathan) with the Center for Food Equity in Medicine (CFFEIM). This volunteer-led nonprofit delivers food and provides pop-up markets for cancer patients (both adult and pediatric) and their families. This past Christmas we served over 35 families. I’d like to acknowledge Senator Michael Hastings who donated turkeys to the CFFEIM for the holiday event. It really showed me how great it is to work with our representatives to serve our community.

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

I plan to make an impact, but I understand that it will take time. I have a lot to learn and I hope to find [a] good mentor within the Township to guide me. To me, success in this position means creating a holistic and happy community. I strive to cultivate a thriving and inclusive community for my neighbors. Specifically, I would love to introduce a youth house (if funds allow and the community is supportive) that will be a safe haven for our young residents to hang out and “just be kids.” Additionally, I would like to learn more from our food pantry and expand ways we could work with our neighboring townships.

Why should voters trust you?

I am a wife, mother, stepmother, and grandmother. I am also a sister, aunt, and friend. I value my relationships and understand what trust really means. I do not consider myself a “politician” but someone who is dedicated to making our community the best it can be for ALL. I want to work with other board members and the community to ensure we have the best place to live for everyone.

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

I believe in being fiscally responsible. I’m dedicated to our community – seniors, families, singles and especially our youth. Unfortunately, to this point there has not been transparency with our current board, so I am unable to give details on spending.

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:

It’s not so much as advice but more of a role model. I was fortunate to have a dynamic mother who dedicated herself to serving her neighbors and her community. From a young age, she taught me how important it was to serve her community and give back. I lost her to cancer when I was 14 years old, but she made an imprint that I cannot deny. I am extremely proud to keep her legacy alive.

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

I have lived in Frankfort Township - specifically Frankfort Square - for 20 years. I live with my husband, Mike, a retired union truck driver, my son Nathan, who is a freshman at Lincoln-Way East. Nathan is in band and plays clarinet, oboe, tenor and bass saxophone. I have two fantastic stepchildren, Lauren and Paul, who have made me a proud grandmother (they call me Mae Mae) to two beautiful girls Emma and Lucy. We also have 3 silly dogs - Hobbs, Georgie and Rey, that we are crazy about. My family and friends mean everything to me. I have always been the “go to” friend who would help no matter what. That is how I feel about our community. I want to be that “go to” person to help and serve our community. I am proud to be part of a great slate. We are a team of dedicated neighbors who want the best for everyone.
Thank you for letting me share.