The RB Landmark sent questionnaires to each person running for public office in 2025. The Landmark’s questions are in bold and the candidate’s responses are below.
Political experience
Village of Brookfield President 2005-2013 and 2021 – present Village of Brookfield Village Trustee 1998-2001, 2003 – 2005 and 2013-2021. Chairman of West Cook County Solid Waste Agency 2007-2023 Executive Committee of West Central Municipal Conference 2023 – present
Community experience
Former Chairman of Village of Brookfield Plan Commission, Former Brookfield Little League Manager Former Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor Former School Board President St. Louise de Mariilac School
What kind of residential development would you like to see in Brookfield’s future? Is the current focus on transit-oriented development working?
A variety of residential development would be most desirable to meet the needs and wants of residents. We have very strong single family districts that are seeing growth and renovations on a large scale. The focus on transit-oriented development is also working as planned. Higher density developments near the train and collector routes are supporting growth in the business districts by adding to the customer base.
What kind of residential development would you like to see in Brookfield’s future? Is the current focus on transit-oriented development working?
A variety of residential development would be most desirable to meet the needs and wants of residents. We have very strong single family districts that are seeing growth and renovations on a large scale. The focus on transit-oriented development is also working as planned. Higher density developments near the train and collector routes are supporting growth in the business districts by adding to the customer base.
How do you perceive Brookfield has changed over the past 15 years? What specific things has the village done that led to these changes?
Improved infrastructure, more professional management and planning and increased social activities for residents are part of the transformation of Brookfield over the past 15 years. By improving streets, sewers, parks and facilities we have improved the quality of life for our residents and businesses. The attraction and retention of professional staff and employees has allowed us to do more with less and weather the challenges that we have faced. Finally, we have improved the quality of life of our residents though supporting and sponsoring new and increased social activities like recreation programs, concerts, Farmers Markets and special events.
What nearby communities do you compare Brookfield to? Lyons? Stickney? Riverside? LaGrange? LaGrange Park? Why?
I think Brookfield stands out as being unique. We have many of the desirable things that our neighboring communities have but also maintain that sense of being “Mayberry”. The people and groups that make up Brookfield are special. We have so many groups and individuals who volunteer to bring so much to our Village. Our people are what makes Brookfield.
What is the biggest challenge facing Brookfield?
The biggest challenge facing Brookfield is trying to continue to make the necessary improvements and offer the desired services and facilities while understanding the financial costs and impact on taxpayers.
As a member of the village board, how will you respond to Trump-administration policies at the local level?
I believe my role has a local official is to take care of Brookfield in the best possible way. We need to follow county, state and federal laws and react to the mandates that we have placed upon us and remember what our roles and areas of responsibility are.