Republican

Joe Swierczek

Belleville

Age: 52

Married

Children: None

Job: Firefighter, insurance sales

Phone: 618-235-9841

Web: VoteJoeSwierczek.com

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E-mail: VoteJoeSwierczek@gmail.com

Education: Hours toward completion of associate's in fire science, SWIC; Firefighter II and III certification, University of Illinois

Previous offices: Elected to the county board in 2002, 2006

Qualifications: My previous six years of serving on the county board along with my conservative voting record qualifies me for this office. I am a lifelong resident of St. Clair County and I have lived in this district for 39 years. I am dedicated to my work and I have always worked with people. I have been a firefighter in Belleville for 28 years and an insurance agent for 23 years. I am a board member of the Hexenbukel Neighborhood Association and I am a committee member of the St. Louis Guns 'n Hoses Boxing Association, benefiting Backstoppers. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work for the people of my district and the people of St. Clair County.

Top issues: We must put a stop to the outrageous and arrogant spending of tax dollars at MidAmerica Airport. The Airport has lost more than $134 million since it was built. A strong focus on business growth and job development. The unemployment rate has reached 10 percent and this is inexcusable with the resources surrounding this county. Crime is a major issue in Belleville and St. Clair County. Never again should we see 13 deputy's laid off over contract disputes when the county has thrown away millions of taxpayers dollars on MidAmerica Airport, the Caseyville Gun Club battle and over funding the East St. Louis Election Board. Every property owner must be guaranteed a fair property tax assessment. Better oversight must be put in place to assure fairness.