Meet Homer Township Library Trustee Candidate: Phyllis Dahlstrand

HOMER GLEN, IL — Phyllis Dahlstrand is one of four candidates running for three open positions for trustee on the Homer Township Public Library Board. Dahlstrand is a retired physical therapist, and has served as a library trustee since 2009.

Dahlstrand 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: Phyllis Dahlstrand

Age (as of Election Day):

72

Town/City of Residence:

Homer Glen

Office Sought:

Library board

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

Non-partisan

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education:

Doctorate in Physical Therapy

Occupation:

Retired 2017, Physical therapist 47 years

Campaign website: None.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Currently Library Trustee since 2009

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

The population in Homer Township is steadily growing. It is desirable for our library to continue to meet the demands of our diverse community while being fiscally responsible.

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 do believe that Black lives matter. I do not condone violence in demonstrations.

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 am only speaking in reference to the library board where I believe racial equality is definitely respected and demanded.

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 believe that the library should and does follow CDC guidelines.

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?

N/A

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

I believe that all of the current board members who are also running are well qualified. I have no knowledge of the one candidate not currently on the board.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

N/A

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

I previously owned a physical therapy clinic in Homer Glen for 17 years until I retired and sold this in 2017. This experience prepared me for the responsibilities on this board where I have been a member since 2009.

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

A continuation of the ease and efficiency seen in board activity.

Why should voters trust you?

I believe that I enjoy a good reputation having lived in Homer Glen since 1985 and working here since 2000.

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

The library has been very fiscally responsible in self funding any expansion that has been done in recent years.

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 is never wrong to do the right thing.

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

I feel like I have been very blessed and that it is important to give back to the community. Being a member of the library board is one way I can do this.