The Riverside-Brookfield Landmark sent questionnaires to each person running for public office in 2023. The Landmark’s questions are in bold and the candidate’s responses are below.
Name: Cristin Evans
Age: 52
Previous Political Experience: Riverside Village Board Trustee (2019-present)
Previous/Current Community Involvement: Current: Riverside Village Board Trustee, Cross Community Climate Collaborative: Riverside Sustainability Team, Riverside Friends of the Library: Vice President of Membership, Riverside Junior Woman’s Charity member
Occupation: Public Information Officer | Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority
Education: Columbia College Chicago, B.A., Journalism
1. Why are you running for the board of the Village of Riverside?
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Riverside as a Village Trustee
for the last four years. During that time, we have:
- Opened the door to a modern and lucrative revenue stream: cannabis
retail. - Created business districts that build resources to spur Harlem Avenue
development and invest in beautification. - Prioritized measures to address impacts of climate change.
- Dedicated resources to expand and enhance park district infrastructure
and offerings. - Taken steps to improve and enhance the Quincy business corridor.
- Leveraged new assets to develop the local economy.
I’ve also enjoyed working individually with people around the village to
problem-solve when help is needed. But there is still plenty of work to be
done. We have only scratched the surface in addressing stormwater and
flood mitigation issues. We must identify and plan for future community
sustainability needs. And significant economic development opportunities are
on the horizon. We must prepare for that growth while taking steps to
minimize community and resident impact.
2. What experience and perspectives would you bring to the position and how would they be valuable as an elected official?
As an 18-year resident of the village, I have a long history of working in the
community. I have a drive for public service and a keen sense of how local
government decisions can affect the lives of residents and families.
I am familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of village infrastructure and
assets and have supported efforts to offset the impacts of climate change
around the village.
I prioritize public safety and the need to equip Riverside police and
firefighters with the resources they need to keep us safe while ensuring their
own safety. I also understand local business needs and have supported
efforts to support them, including facade improvement grants, outdoor
seating allowances, fee waivers, and increased parking space for
employees.
Lastly, I carry a sense of compassion for village residents and prioritize
equity in decision-making. I am always open to creating new possibilities and
working with others to achieve them.
3. What do you believe are some of the greatest challenges facing the village?
Climate change is a significant threat. We are being challenged to quickly
address the increase in stormwater and flooding and implement strategies to
prevent damage to homes and other village assets. Resident feedback
indicates flood mitigation is a primary concern.
Another challenge is the fight for revenue and seizing upon every opportunity
to promote economic development in Riverside. The Board has taken several
steps to create an inviting environment for new business development,
including key property acquisition. We can expect to see some significant
positive changes to the business landscape in the next couple of years.
Financing aging infrastructure improvements also continues to be a
challenge. We are constantly seeking grant opportunities to offset certain
costs. Without the revenue generators other municipalities enjoy, we will
continue to seek creative financial solutions to address infrastructure needs.
