Grayslake Village Board Race: Shawn Vogel

GRAYSLAKE, IL — There are three incumbents and one newcomer vying for three open seats on the Grayslake Village Board this spring. Patch.com reached out to candidates, requesting they fill out a survey showcasing their views on various topics.

Here is the profile for incumbent Shawn M. Vogel:

Age (as of Election Day)

47

Town/City of Residence

Grayslake

Office Sought

Village board or city council

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

None/Independent

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

BS Mechanical Engineering

Occupation

Engineer (25 years)

Campaign website

http://www.grayslakestrong.com

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Trustee - Village of Grayslake

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

The long-term success of Grayslake is the foremost issue. The issue is multi-faceted and includes fiscal strength, sound infrastructure, and planning. When I was elected to the Board in 2005, I quickly realized that the solid foundation I inherited from board members before me needs to be preserve and improved for those board members to succeed me. I will continue to advocate our fiscal responsibility, low operating costs, additional economic development, and community investment.

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?

It is undeniable that the events of last summer produced raw emotions and reactions. There are lessons to be learned and perceptions to be challenged. Fortunately, Grayslake has a long history of community engaged policing. The Village's Police Department is accredited by CALEA, a national standard that only about 5% of departments achieve. This standard has guiding principals and is based on collective suggestions and recommendations from across the country. Grayslake has been accredited since 2001 and continues to implement the changes in standards. These standards bring a continuous improvement approach, often seen in private industry, to Grayslake's community policing, which maintains a high level of service and professionalism to residents.

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

Grayslake has policies on diversity and inclusion. These policies are evaluated over time to include changes in statutes and to incorporate new practices.

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?

As a non-home rule municipality, the Village has no enforcement authority. That said, the Village has been consistent in communicating the requirements from the State and County health departments to residents and businesses. The Village adapted its practices to allow for the uninterrupted continuation of services. Any complaints or concerns raised were reviewed, reminders sent, and cases referred to the County Health Department.

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?

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

I will cite my experience and detailed knowledge of municipal issues. I have been dedicates to my role as Trustee, continuing to learn about issues and applying this knowledge to decisions. I am also willing to take feedback and ideas, and look for means to use this information in the context of municipal government.

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

N/A

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Fiscal responsibility
Control taxes
Economic development
Smart transportation
Sustainability
Intergovernmental cooperation

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

I have served on a variety of commissions that touch several aspects of municipal government. I have served on the Economic Development Commission since 2005, which published a number of studies and reports that helped contribute to expanded non-residential development in Grayslake. I also currently serve on CLCJAWA, the water agency that brings Lake Michigan water to Grayslake and other communities. The agency recently expanded, adding new members, which has the effect of lowering water rates to Grayslake residents. I have previously served on several transportation committees. I also served on the Grayslake Heritage Center committee, which provided strategic vision for the expansion of services at the museum.

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

A success would be finishing key infrastructure projects that enable expanded economic development in Grayslake. Additionally, completing key investments in our downtown to increase events and visits to the Village Center would add to a successful term.

Why should voters trust you?

I have a demonstrated record based on consistency, fiscal responsibility, applying a broader Village perspective, and being straightforward in my discourse and decisions.

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

Grayslake has long maintained a strong financial position. The operating budget has grown less than the rate of inflation for over 20 years, and is currently debt free. The use of contracted services continues to keep operating costs low. Established business-like enterprise funds allow certain services to pay for themselves without having to add to. taxpayer burden. The Village also has a short- and long-term financial forecast, which allows the Village to make decisions with an understanding of the long-term financial impact. Together, these, and other measures, allow the Village to continue to provide essential services in all economic conditions. The financial planning and stability of the Village has allowed the Village to freeze or take less than the allowed property tax for several years, which keeps money in residents' pockets. I have and will continue to support this approach.

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

Many towns like Grayslake will need to rely on the County for the majority of the vaccine distribution. However, local towns should be engaged in the process. Local town can help coordinate sites, disseminate information, and provide input to the County on operations. Vaccine distribution will be complex. Local towns can provide valuable services and information if engaged.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Be yourself and live your convictions.

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

I am a life-long resident of Grayslake, and I am a supporter of the town. Residents can see me volunteering at community events. I am accessible and willing to talk to residents on issues and subjects related to the Village.