Belleville Mayor

Phillip G. Elmore

Belleville

Age: 49

Job: Insurance broker

Phone: 618-416-6506

Web: forabetterbelleville.com

Facebook: For a Better Belleville

Twitter: #4abetterbville

Email: forabetterbelleville@gmail.com

Education: Belleville East High School, Broadcast Center, National Association of Life Underwriters

Previous offices: 7th Ward alderman, 2009-2013

Qualifications: I have managed people and events in our community for over 30 years. I have chaired Deutsch Fests, worked at Paint the Town and Art on the Square. I created the Tour de Belleville Family Bike Ride, which has raised over $110,000 to benefit public safety. I've also started Belleville's first dog park, which will open soon. I've worked as a commissioner and managed crews in youth sports. As alderman, I serve on Traffic, Finance, Master Sewer, Economic Development and Annexation and the Historic Preservation Commission. I was instrumental in the formation of three sub-committees that were created. They include: Leaf Burning, Wheel Sticker Alternative and Website Development. I started eight new neighborhood watch groups and three neighborhood associations. No other aldermen or mayoral candidate has started as many "citizen-based" groups. Professionally, I have assessed customers' assets and liabilities through being a multi-line insurance agent. True leaders let their people and policies lead. Through the skill of listening and communicating, and without political prejudice, we will make Belleville better.

Top issues: Public Safety: Everything revolves around our city improving public perception. We need more police officers. We need to integrate the use of surveillance cameras. These cameras are designed to record their location for days at a time. They are a deterrent and will aid in prosecution. If we don't start to fight crime in a different manner, we will continue to decline. Responsible use of TIF: This is an effective funding resource. The problem we currently endure is the lack of prioritization. There is no plan for how to best use taxpayers' money. The use of TIF for infrastructure improvements will have top priority. If we enter into a commercial development agreement, it will be evaluated on our city's needs first. Treasurer position: Please see Dean Hardt's comments. Transparency in City Government: Citizens should always be able to see how their dollars are being spent. The citizens are my employer. I will answer to them. City Housing Court will remedy delays we currently experience with St. Clair County. I am not above the citizens. Dean Hardt and myself are two of the citizens.

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Belleville Mayor

Mark W. Eckert

Belleville

Age: 57

Job: mayor

Phone: 618-233-6810, Ext. 239

Web: bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Twitter:

Email: meckert@belleville.net

Education: Graduate of Belleville West High School, 1974, over 60 hours college credit in law enforcement courses, graduated Southwest Illinois Police Academy 1978, certified emergency medical technician-intermediate

Previous offices: Mayor - City of Belleville - December 20, 2004-present; Alderman - City of Belleville - Ward 5 - May 1997-December 2004

Qualifications: I have over eight years experience as mayor. I have a proven record of leadership, successfully managed nine unions, 400+ city employees and made good decisions in choosing city department heads to lead our 15 various service areas of the city. I have effectively managed a budget of approximately $130 million. I am devoted to strengthening relationships on behalf of the City of Belleville, including Scott Air Force Base, Lindenwood University, St. Clair County, local and state government officials, neighborhood partnerships and businesses. I have seven years experience as alderman of Ward 5 and served as chairman on the Economic Development Committee as well as many other committees. I was a co-founder and executive director of the Franklin Neighborhood Community Association from 1993-1996. I owned and operated Maine Chimney Sweep Ltd. from 1996-2007 and am part owner of Eckert Florist Inc. from 1999-present. I worked for Pete Gaerdner Funeral Home and Ambulance from 1973-1988, making many emergency and life and death decisions. My experience and my proven record qualify me for this office.

Top issues: Crime is of great concern to this administration and is taken very seriously. I supported the Police Department's efforts to reduce crime by not staffing the west end police station and put six officers back on the streets to patrol west Belleville. I continue to encourage and support saturated field patrols, extra downtown patrols, parole sweeps and all hands on deck efforts. The new records management system is making progress and will be implemented soon, as well as monitoring our income for the new gaming for the possibility of hiring a few more officers. I support the occupancy ordinance and the new Crime-Free Housing Program. I continue to work aggressively on economic development by working with Lindenwood University and Southwestern Illinois College, encourage development on Illinois 15, continue to strengthen our downtown, and maintain street improvements, including the North Illinois Streetscape, Sixth to 28th Streetscape, McClintock Avenue and many neighborhood street and sidewalk repairs.

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Belleville Mayor

Joseph Hayden

Belleville

Age: 49

Job: agent, fls insurance, alderman for the City of Belleville

Phone: 618-234-8956

Web: votebelleville.com

Facebook: Vote Joe Hayden

Twitter:

Email: joe@votejoehayden.com

Education: master's degree in public administration, bachelor's degree in government

Previous offices: Alderman Ward 5 1993-97, 2011-present

Qualifications: I have master's degree in public administration and over 20 years of government experience. I am the only mayoral candidate to put forth a detailed written platform. I have a track record of listening and responding to citizens' needs. The people of Belleville are tired of the status quo. With over 20 years of working with public budgets, I will plan and prioritize the city's needs with the taxpayer's best interest being the top importance. The people have a right to walk their dog at night and not feel threaten. The current administration wants us to accept crime as common place. That is unacceptable to me. In my career, I have dealt with public personnel issues, wrote grants and directed multimillion dollar Capital Improvement Program plans. I have worked hand in hand with police and fire departments, supervised park and rec programs, maintenance of parks, streets and city infrastructure. I served as alderman from 1993-97 where we added 16 police officers, lowered crime and lowered property taxes six years in a row. I have the experience and education to make a difference for Belleville.

Top issues: The number one issue in the City of Belleville is crime. I ran on that platform for alderman in 2011 and got 62 percent of the vote, because I was in touch with the residents of Ward 5. Unless we lower crime, end the negative perception within our community and outside the city, people will continue to move and our city will decline. My webpages listed above provide detailed plans and platforms on how to reduce crime. Until a recent BND article confirmed my premise that crime was the number one issue, my opponents had not taken crime serious. The other key issues are tax increment financing (TIF) reform, housing, open government and transparency, budget reform and better community relations with staff, citizens and businesses. My webpages also offer detailed plans and programs to deal with these issues. Without TIF reform, the city will reach a TIF cliff that will put us in a position to not be able to afford basic services. The City of Belleville's election comes down to one thing: Are you happy with the status quo? If you are not happy, please vote for Joseph W. "Joe" Hayden for Mayor April 9.

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Belleville City Clerk

Dallas B. Cook

Belleville

Age: 27

Job: Small business owner, political consultant

Phone: 618-360-2028

Web: votebelleville.com

Facebook: Lets Make Things Right

Twitter: @DallasCookIL

Email: letsmakethingsright2013@gmail.com

Education: Studied political science at Illinois State University

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: My two most important qualifications for city clerk are my honesty and allegiance to the citizens of Belleville. I have not served one day in government and do not owe any political favors. I believe it is important to elect people who are not part of a political machine. I am a true independent. During my time as a state director for the Madison Project, I managed a statewide voter canvassing effort, worked to organize over 700 volunteers and managed a statewide computer database. I am qualified to improve the city clerk's position. I am ready for anything and I bring fresh new ideas to the table. It's time for fairness and change in Belleville.

Top issues: The issues in the city clerk's race are accessibility, balance, independence and transparency. The main responsibility of the city clerk's office is to make available city information to the public. Recently, I requested information from the city clerk's office regarding city ordinances. The city clerk's office denied my request and then told me I was to direct all of my questions to the city attorney. Why can't the city clerk's office give information to citizens about ordinances? How does the city expect citizens to follow the law, if the city refuses to inform the citizens of the law? Does a citizen need to hire an attorney to have contact with our local government? Currently, the City of Belleville has an F rating on accessibility and transparency according to the Sunshine Review. In comparison, the City of Chicago received a B and the City of Carbondale an A-plus. This has to change. If I am elected city clerk, citizens will receive a direct response to questions. On April 9th, I implore the great citizens of Belleville to vote against one party rule, and vote for change and transparency.

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Belleville City Clerk

Linda Fields

Belleville

Age: 67

Job: City clerk

Phone: 618-233-6810

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Email: lfields@belleville.net

Education: Certified municipal clerk; master municipal clerk

Previous offices: Assistant city treasurer, 1992-1997; SWIC PSOP Board member; Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee Board member; Illinois Township Clerks Association; Southwestern Illinois Municipal Clerks Association past president and vice president

Qualifications: I have worked for the City of Belleville since 1978. I worked as assistant city treasurer from 1992 to 1997 and was elected city clerk in 1997. I have worked hard to continuously improve the standards in my office. I am the first Belleville city clerk to attain certified municipal clerk status with the International Institute of Municipal Clerks and have completed further educational requirements in order to attain the status of master municipal clerk. Municipal clerks are lifelong learners. What began as a clerical function is now a technical and management function. I have a proven record of transparency and a commitment to open government. I am the direct link between citizens and their government, and I take a common sense approach at solving the issues that arise every day. I serve the citizens, the mayor, the city council, and all administrative departments without exception. I will continue to use technology for this purpose and upgrade as funds are available. In person and on the Internet, I am a professional and represent what the citizens of the Belleville expect from their elected officials.

Top issues: The top issue in the city clerk's race is which candidate is the most qualified. As I said before, look at my record, the accomplishments, the vision and the common sense approach to solve the issues that arise every day. The transparency of this office will be improved greatly by the newly-redesigned city website. The new site will be much more user friendly and will contain additional public information.

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Belleville City Treasurer

Dean L. Hardt

Belleville

Age: 40

Job: Vice president of sales

Phone: 618-416-6506

Web: www.forabetterbelleville.com

Facebook: For a Better Belleville

Twitter: #4abetterbville

Email: forabetterbelleville@gmail.com

Education: Degree in diesel technology

Previous offices: Currently Ward 4 alderman

Qualifications: With over 22 years of employment at Gerold Moving, from my first position sweeping floors to my current position as vice president of sales, my work experience has provided administrative, training and leadership skills that I will bring to the treasurer's office. Upon being elected, I will become familiar with each position so I can perform my duties effectively in the collection of the city's receivables. Other duties I currently perform are billing of services, negotiating contracts with service providers and ensuring we are current with available technologies in the moving industry. This experience in leadership provides the experience and knowledge to fill the responsibilities of the treasurer's office. In my current position, and through The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, Business Network International and Rotary International, I have attended many seminars and workshops that have increased my knowledge and expertise. This training has aided me in both my business and personal life. I look forward to sharing this knowledge with everyone I interact with in the treasurer's office.

Top issues: The first issue is to determine if the treasurer position is needed. With Phil Elmore as mayor and myself as treasurer we will put a referendum on the 2015 ballot that will allow the citizens to decide if the City of Belleville will continue to elect a treasurer. I firmly believe that once the citizens learn that the responsibilities of the treasurer position can be delegated to other individuals, and with proper oversight from the city finance director and our current annual outside auditing firm, we will succeed in eliminating this position and thereby save the citizens of Belleville an administrative salary that will be used to increase the size of the police department by one officer. The second issue is to improve the use of technology in the treasurer office. During my term I will upgrade the records management system that will allow the department to operate more efficiently. These improvements will allow the sewer and trash collection department to function without the need for oversight and provide improved quality of service to the citizens.

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Belleville City Treasurer

Jerry Turner

Belleville

Age: 79

Job: City treasurer

Phone: 618-233-6518, Ext. 214

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Email: jturner@belleville.net

Education: Bachelor of science, University of Missouri-Columbia; master's in education, University of Missouri-Columbia

Previous offices: Principal of Belleville District 201, 1968-1992; Ward 3 alderman, 1997-2004; St. Clair County Sheriff's Commission, 1971-1985 and chairman, 1981-1985; member of the Board of Hospice of Southern Illinois; lay leadership positions at Union United Methodist Church

Qualifications: I am running on my record of achievement in public service in Belleville for more than 40 years -- the past 14 years as an alderman and the city's treasurer. I am forthright, honest, energetic and a skilled administrator. I am committed to the betterment of Belleville and its citizens. It is well known that the best indicator of what someone can do is his past record of achievement. My record includes: Billing sewer and trash charges every month instead of quarterly; contracting with Illinois American Water to suspend service to non-payers, thereby increasing collection by more than $1.5 million annually; updating technology to allow for credit card and online payments; communicating with citizens frequently about how to reduce sewer charges; championing the lowest possible sewer-trash charges; saving two salaries plus benefits by reducing staff; and promoting excellent customer service.

Top issues: The issue of whether to maintain a full-time city treasurer has become an issue of this race. However, eliminating the position of city treasurer will not save taxpayers any money. In fact, it would probably add cost over time because someone would have to do what the treasurer does - most likely with department head status, at a salary greater than the treasurer's salary. The treasurer collects more than $10 million in city revenue annually and is also the custodian of both the police and firemen's funds, which have a combined total of more than $37 million. The treasurer also provides the necessary checks and balances between his position, which is elected, and the finance director, which is appointed. The issue of this election should be who is best able to represent Belleville, to provide leadership, to execute administrative expertise, to consistently use good judgment and common sense, and to import a quest for excellence in city government. The citizens of Belleville deserve the very best government they can envision and afford.

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Belleville Ward 1 Alderman

Ken Kinsella

Belleville

Age: 66

Job: retired teacher & bus driver

Phone: 618-234-0825

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Twitter:

Email: kenkinsella483@gmail.com

Education: Bachelor of arts, Lewis University

Previous offices: School District 118 Board of Education (1985-2008), president for two terms; chairman of the Finance Committee

Qualifications: My 23 years of experience as a member of Belleville Grade School District #118 School Board has been very important in my role as alderman of Ward 1. It gave me experience with multimillion dollar budgets, negotiations involving multiple unions, and construction projects from the point of view of a board member. My background as a teacher has given me the public speaking skills to represent my constituents effectively. I have been a very active alderman. I am chairman of the Public Health and Housing, chairman of Downtown Development and Redevelopment, and chairman of the Crime Free Housing Task Force. I am a member of the Streets and Grades Committee, Economic Development and Annexation Committee, and The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce Education Committee. My background and willingness to work hard qualify me to be Alderman of Ward 1.

Top issues: Crime has become the top issue in this race for almost everyone. We all want to see the crime rate reduced. Many people seem to focus only on increasing the number of policemen. That is very important, but we cannot overlook some of the solutions that are already in the works. The Crime Free Housing Ordinance that is being considered by the council will be another tool to fight crime. The new software to be shared with the county will streamline much of the paperwork for police officers, saving man hours to be used for crime fighting. The biggest issue of this race is actually leadership - who is going to be elected mayor? Who is going to lead the city? Which candidate has a proven track record of overseeing hundreds of employees, sculpting a multimillion dollar budget, and preparing our city for economic growth? The city needs a strong mayor. I know of no other person who has greater knowledge of and more dedication to the City of Belleville than Mark Eckert. This is the time to vote for experience. This is the time to vote for dedication. This is the time to vote for Mayor Mark Eckert.

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Belleville Ward 1 Alderman

Garrett Peek

Belleville

Age: 31

Job: small business owner

Phone: 618-550-9626

Web: www.VoteBelleville.com

Facebook: Garrett Peek for Belleville Ward 1 Alderman

Twitter:

Email: gpeek@hotmail.com

Education: Bachelor's in business administration & marketing

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: I am qualified for this office because of my education and experience. I have been a small business owner in downtown Belleville for eight-plus years. During that time, I have worked closely with other local business owners to try and find solutions for problems that have been plaguing the city. This has given me a great opportunity to truly understand the struggles of the local business owners and to work with them for solutions to these problems. I have walked and spoken with many of the residents in Ward 1 and understand their plight as well. The problems that I have heard are not impossible to fix but they are problems that need to be taken seriously and given attention as soon as possible. I am qualified for this office because I truly believe that I can help solve these problems and be proactive in preventing future concerns within Ward 1 and the City of Belleville.

Top issues: Serving the residents of Ward 1 correctly is the top issue in this race. Protecting the homeowners and helping keep their property values up are the most important issues to me. Citywide, the problems are great. Crime is a growing problem that needs to be addressed. The criminals are getting more and more daring each day. The TIF spending has to be reformed and previous TIFs need to be reviewed. The city budget needs to be reviewed to see how funds are being used and if there are better uses for the funds. Housing is always important to Belleville. There are too many derelict houses that are weights on neighborhoods and other house prices. Government transparency needs to continue and also needs to be greater. The people need to have easier access to the goings on of the city council. Lastly, the city council needs to improve its relationship with the city staff. Face-to-face discussions with the staff would be a great place to start.

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Belleville Ward 2 Alderman

Dorothy Meyer

Belleville

Age: 55

Job: liaison to the county board chairman

Phone: 618-277-3855

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Twitter:

Email: dotmeyer618@gmail.com

Education: High school graduate

Previous offices: Alderman Ward 2

Qualifications: As a lifelong resident and four-term alderman of Ward 2, I am well acquainted with the strengths and weaknesses in my ward. As chairwoman of the Economic Development Committee and serving on five council committees, residents can rely on my experience to address concerns and be a voice for continued positive change.

Top issues: Ward 2 encompasses an older section of Belleville where some of the housing and infrastructure are showing signs of age. I will continue to work closely with the Housing Department to enforce and improve the codes and budget yearly for infrastructure improvements. Encourage owner occupied homes to stabilize neighborhoods.

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Belleville Ward 2 Alderman

Janet Schmidt

Belleville

Age: --

Job: homemaker

Phone: 618-416-3533

Web: https://www.facebook.com/BellevilleWard2

Facebook: BellevilleWard2

Twitter: SchmidtWard2

Email: janetkayschmidt@charter.net

Education: Some college/grad Academy of Beauty Culture

Previous offices: Democratic Precinct committeewoman, Belleville 7

Qualifications: A Democrat, I have been the Democratic Precinct committeewoman for Precinct 7 since the Spring of 2002. I have been able to meet and talk with many residents and believe strongly that democracy works best when there is transparency in government, as well as when citizens participate in the process. I feel strongly that there should not be career politicians and will serve no more than two terms in office. I know I may not have all the answers, but I will always listen with an open mind, respect and will always remember that I serve the voters and not other politicians. I also feel strongly that from personal experience, I understand the challenges facing many in my ward and can therefore represent all of the residents. I will work hard for fairness and equality in city government.

Top issues: Crime, TIF reform, housing, transparency, budget review and staff and community relations are top issues city wide as well as Ward 2. In addition, I feel that the proposed historic district in Ward 2 is a very big issue to Ward 2 residents. I also think that the city needs to make an effort to insure equality in both representation and jobs. We need to be doing more to give all youth in our community more opportunities in the present and more hope for the future. I think, the businesses in Ward 2 need to feel the city is working with them to succeed. I think there should be a big effort to bring small businesses to the empty spaces on Main Street and other areas.

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Belleville Ward 3 Alderman

Rob Anderson

Belleville

Age: 57

Job: management position at Schnuck Markets

Phone: 618-235-2363

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Twitter:

Email: socrob55@charter.net

Education: Associate's degree, SWIC

Previous offices: Alderman (2004-Present), Finance Committee, Economic Develop and Annexation Committee

Qualifications: I have been an alderman since 2004. During my service, my bipartisan approach has brought much needed change to the city and Ward 3. The most recent undertakings in my ward include the overlay of Royal Heights Road, North Belt West, Columbus Drive, Sheridan Drive, North 37th Street and Woodland Court. I have worked on the downtown streetscape project, which revitalized the downtown. As the chairman of the master sewer committee, I led the $60 million project to expand the Belleville sewer system. I also serve on the Finance Committee and the Economic Development and Annexation Committee. These committees oversee the city's budget and bring new business and residential projects to the city. I was instrumental in the redevelopment of the former Wagner Buick building and Wendy's restaurant, as well as the demolition of the former Clark gas station to expand the Farmers Market. I take a personal interest in every resident who presents a concern or suggestion to enhance the neighborhood. I always look at the positive aspects of each project, knowing that kind of approach gets the best results.

Top issues: My focus for the future of Belleville and Ward 3 is increasing economic development and decreasing crime to make the city safer to all. The combination of these goals will encourage the growth of the city.

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Belleville Ward 3 Alderman

Kent Randle

Belleville

Age: 58

Job: financial services, business development consultant

Phone: 618-239-9227

Web: VoteBelleville.com

Facebook: Vote Kent Randle

Twitter:

Email: kent.randle@yahoo.com

Education: Belleville West High School, B.S. political science, Illinois State University

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: I've worked in financial services 32 years. I've hired and supervised diverse groups of employees, managed departments, and chaired various committees, including education, professional development and partnering. Building consensus and doing what's right are the keys to achieving success. I hold several securities licenses and currently serve as a business development consultant to nearly 600 financial advisors. I help financial advisors identify solutions that meet our client's unique investment objectives, while managing the risks associated with investing in today's financial markets. I hold certifications in both team building and group facilitation. I've learned to listen to people and help facilitate meetings through safeguarding the rules by which we interact with one another. Public servants need to listen to the people they've been elected to represent, rather than the political party that financed their campaign. The job of an alderman is to protect the interests of their constituents. My education, work experience and communication skills will be assets to the City Council.

Top issues: The city's ever-increasing crime rate and how we use tax increment financing (TIF). Search the internet using City-data.com when looking for a home; you'll find Belleville's crime rate higher than the U.S. national average for 10 of 11 years from 1999-2009, (2010 - 2012 unavailable). Our crime issue is real. In Illinois, the average number of law enforcement personnel per 1,000 residents, is 2.78. In Belleville, the ratio is around 1.85. We must adjust how we spend tax revenue to fund the resources and officers we need. We need to reform our use of TIF money. Financing multibillion dollar corporations like Kroger with $200,000 of our tax money to build near nine existing grocery/produce providers is inappropriate. It allows Kroger to tap into market share, but does nothing other than redistribute existing sales revenue. TIF should be used to rebuild infrastructure, our neighborhood streets, sidewalks and curbs. Bottom line: reduce crime, fix TIF, increase our revenue base by recruiting new job providers in fields of professional, scientific and technical service, light industry.

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Belleville Ward 4 Alderman

Timothy Carpenter

Belleville

Age: 33

Job: Illinois Army National Guard company clerk

Phone: 618-977-2143

Web: www.votebelleville.com

Facebook: BellevillleAldermanWard4

Twitter:

Email:

Education: Four year degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Previous offices: Ward 4 Alderman

Qualifications: I earned my grade school and high school diploma's in Belleville and earned a political science bachelor's degree from SIUE. By being the first independent alderman elected in Belleville, I helped bring checks and balances to our local government. I have gone beyond the scope of local government to work for my constituents at other levels of government. I have followed up in person to resolve many issues in neighborhoods. I have independently investigated many areas of the city needing to be addressed for public safety. I have questioned the priorities and the spending policies of the city government. I have questioned many deal makings by the Good Government Party. I have worked with city staff and developed good work relationships with city employees. I voted against non-bidding city contracts. When I ran for office during the tough economic times in 2009, I said I wouldn't vote to raise taxes. I voted against: the property tax hike, sales tax hike, and the wheel tax. I also consistently voted to improve city infrastructure and other crime fighting measures.

Top issues: 1. Representing Belleville citizens. 2. Reopening the West End police station and staffing it 24 hours per day. 3. Expanding the number of sworn police officers through TIF reform. 4. Moving forward with the West End streetscape plans, which will foster redevelopment in the West End. 5. Reinstatement of the Police Auxiliary Squads. 6. Starting a housing city court. 7. Instituting a small grant program for repairs of residential homeowners for those who are qualified applicants. 8. A multimillion dollar bond to buy out the top ten crime ridden apartment buildings, then demolish and rebuild the lots with single-family homes. 9. Having better city government transparency. 10. Creating a reserve fleet of police squad cars. 11. Opening an East End police station near the SWIC MetroLink station. 12. Expanding the city limits along Route 161 to Scott Air Force Base and, eventually, creating high tech industrial parks adjacent to SAFB. 13. Installing solar paneling and wind turbines on city properties. 14. Explore instituting fire department EMS and a public safety division of the police department.

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Belleville Ward 4 Alderman

Mona Monken-Gehrs

Belleville

Age: 48

Job: medical sales. senior account manager.

Phone: 618-394-5964

Web:

Facebook:

Twitter:

Email: mona.monken.gehrs@gmail.com

Education: St. Louis University, bachelor of arts in political science

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: I am a resident of Ward 4 in the City of Belleville. I am an active, involved citizen. Having been a resident of Belleville my entire life, investing in businesses in Belleville, raising my family in Belleville, and having taught high school in Belleville, I feel I have a deep appreciation, understanding, love and concern for this city. My intentions are to work hard to continue to make Belleville a place we are all proud to call home.

Top issues:

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Belleville Ward 4 Alderman

Johnnie Anthony

Belleville

Age: 65

Job: business owner and developer

Phone: 618-825-0660

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: BellevilleGoodGovernmentParty

Twitter:

Email: janthony31@charter.net

Education: Associate's degree in fire science

Previous offices: Sergeant, U.S. Army; Assistant Fire Chief, East St. Louis Fire Department; Ward 4 Alderman (2004-2009); Precinct 12 Committeeman; Board of Belleville Police and Fire Commissioners; Advisory Board for PSOP; Illinois & International Jaycees

Qualifications: My commitment to public service began as a member of the United States Army, where I attained the rank of sergeant and served in the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged, I spent 30 years as a firefighter in East St. Louis. While on the department, I received numerous awards and commendations for rescue efforts beyond the call of duty. I previously served as Ward 4 alderman, from 2005-2009. I am an active community member and serve as precinct committeeman on the Board of Belleville Police and Fire Commissioners, the Belleville 200 Year Anniversary Advisory Committee, the PSOP Advisory Board, Area Agency on Aging, Illinois & Jaycees International, Unity Lutheran Church, Schickedanz Lake Homeowners Association, Belleville Center for Racial Harmony and Belleville American Legion Post # 58.

Top issues: One of the top issues in this race is crime reduction. Reduction in crime can be partially accomplished through economic development, which will help create local jobs. Due to the economy, much of the crime we see in Belleville is inter-household crime and theft. Economic development will reduce this type of crime and will cause a significant decrease in the overall crime rate. Repair of streets and sidewalks and sewers in ward 4. Through the Neighborhood Partnership, encourage home repair programs designed to help citizens who can't afford to do it themselves. Continued development of recreation and green space for the far West End.

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Belleville Ward 5 Alderman

Phillip Silsby

Belleville

Age: 65

Job: executive pastor / retired principal Belleville West High School

Phone: 618-234-5910

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook:

Twitter:

Email: psilsby@yahoo.com

Education: BS, MA and Ed.D

Previous offices: Ward 5 Alderman

Qualifications: I have served in public and private leadership positions for over 30 years on the local, state and national level. Having been born, raised and lived in Belleville the majority of my life, I have an understanding of the community, its needs, its history, and its vision. Having served as an alderman for eight years, I have the insight to make a difference for my constituents as well as the city as a whole. Being a team member, I know how to work together with others to accomplish goals that will make this city better.

Top issues: Continue to address the crime, health and safety issues facing our neighborhoods and city as a whole. Continue to maintain the city's infrastructure needs (roads, sidewalks, house, etc.). Continue to develop and expand business opportunities within the city. Continue to work for residents, businesses and city officials to promote the city as a place to work, shop and enjoy family activities.

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Belleville Ward 5 Alderman

Michael Hagberg

Belleville

Age: 52

Job: Independent computer consultant

Phone: 618-233-2525

Web: VoteHagberg.com

Facebook: VoteHagberg

Twitter:

Email: mhagberg2525@gmail.com

Education: Some college

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: My qualifications for alderman include a willingness to help citizens resolve issues within the city. Whether it's a nuisance neighbor, applying for a zoning variance or getting potholes or crumbling sidewalks repaired, I will see that the appropriate department is notified and follow through to see that the issue is resolved. Aldermen control the spending of your tax dollars and I would do so in a fiscally responsible way. One example is to put an end to "no bid" design projects. We often have three or more qualified engineering firms for a project and they should compete for the job. This ensures we are getting the best price for professional services. My professional background enables me to review purchases to know that the city is getting recent technology at reasonable prices. A basic understanding of construction, electrical and mechanical systems allow me to understand projects and proposed solutions. These skills allow me to raise questions about future projects to prevent the scenario where the city council has been forced into approving additional money after a project is started.

Top issues: My top priority is to end the wasteful spending of the current administration. I have spoken to many citizens and it's clear there must be a change to these spending habits. It does little good to spend millions of taxpayer dollars on parks and bicycle trails when citizens don't feel safe. Only after we create a safe city can we discuss expanding public parks. I would like to see the police force increased by hiring 20 officers dedicated to patrolling the streets during the overnight hours. Some of the worst fiscal abuses have involved the use of tax increment financing (TIF) revenues as handouts to huge corporations. Not much can be done to the deals made in the past, except to begin to monitor them and ensure the companies perform as promised. All future business agreements should be openly discussed, allowing time for public comments before being considered by the council members. It's also time that the city reevaluate the TIF districts and ask if they've met their initial goals. If so, the TIF should be eliminated allowing the city to levy those funds to pay for more police officers.

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Belleville Ward 6 Alderman

Dave Martinson

Belleville

Age: 60

Job: retired Belleville fire chief

Phone: 618-277-4234

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: Belleville Good Government Party

Twitter:

Email: blvl.ward.6@gmail.com

Education: BA from Western Illinois University

Previous offices: Alderman Ward 6

Qualifications: I know the city and its great history as I have lived 56 of my 60 years in Belleville and spent over 35 of these years proudly serving the citizens of this city. As a veteran of U.S. Army Reserves 1972-78 serving as a Drill Instructor, SFC, I gained the leadership experience to rise to the top of my profession as a career firefighter with the City of Belleville Fire Department. My career with BFD spanned 30 years from 1977-2007. I was appointed to fire chief in 2000 and served as chief until retirement in 2007, the longest tenure as chief in 50 years. I am adept at managing budgets, personnel issues, resources, securing grants, writing and enforcing policy and regulations. I have firsthand knowledge of the public safety issues facing the city and the respect of my peers as a former department head. I know what makes Belleville tick. I currently serve as chairman of the Finance Committee and member of the Master Sewer, Health & Housing, Planning Commission and Ordinance & Legal Review committees. My main goal is to provide excellent customer service to all.

Top issues: The priority focus at this point is the expansion and modernization of the Belleville Police Department. Steps have already been taken by the City Council to give the PD advanced means needed to fight crime such as the approval of new records management software, Crime Free Housing initiative, and Neighborhood Partnership Program. Finding funding for more manpower and improvement of PD facilities is the challenge that must be met to keep the city on the upswing. We have great things happening here and a strong and effective PD will ensure continued success. Our vision for growth is being addressed through the $44 million Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion, updating the Long Term Economic Development Plan, new interactive website, Bicentennial Park, and public access TV channel in conjunction with Lindenwood University. As always, encouraging citizen involvement and openness in government is a personal priority. I appreciate the feedback received while working together on issues in our all American city.

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Belleville Ward 6 Alderman

Bob White

Belleville

Age: 66

Job: retired af cmsgt/Lewis & Clark Community College

Phone: 618-277-7031

Web: http://bellevilleweb.com

Facebook: Bob White for Ward 6 Alderman

Twitter:

Email: ward6@bellevilleweb.com

Education: Bachelors in political science, USAF Academic instructor and Technical Training instructor, certified network administrator and network engineer

Previous offices: Precinct Committeeman Belleville Precinct 35 - 3 years

Qualifications: I consider it a privilege to serve and did serve in an Air Force medical career field over 27 years. As the career field manager, I gained recognition for championing member concerns to leadership. I used extensive budget preparation and management knowledge to reduce unnecessary spending and to hold colleagues accountable. Some of my fondest memories are related to developing personnel who had not yet realized their potential. Development of meaningful training initiatives helped me match individual skills with requirements. I also evaluated software and hardware technology and successfully led organizational integration. A degree in political science and background in management and technology formed the foundation for my independent and innovative thinking. I believe in transparent government that seeks to inform constituents about important and relevant matters. I have video recorded Belleville City Council meetings for over a year and posted them on YouTube to inform Belleville citizens about city government. This singular act has led to more civil and fact-based government.

Top issues: My top concerns are four: safety for Belleville citizens, appropriate allocation of TIF funds (derived from your hard earned tax dollars), repair of the city's infrastructure, and transparent government. A safe city environment is created by a police presence focused on high crime, vulnerable populations. Once methodically identified, targeted initiatives send a message: "Go elsewhere; we have you on our radar." Tax increment funding has a place but siphons tax dollars from the general fund. Respect for tax dollars which fund TIF initiatives is demonstrated through citizen input to decision-making. Move TIF dollars to general fund to repair streets. Government transparency holds elected officials accountable for outcomes. I promise advocacy for citizen safety, input into TIF funding, and City Council agenda availability seven to 10 days before meetings on the city's website to invite citizen awareness, participation and feedback.

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Belleville Ward 7 Alderman

Victoria Weygandt

Belleville

Age: 58

Job: independent sales & marketing representative

Phone: 618-277-7518

Web: www.bellevillegoodgov.com

Facebook: BellevilleGoodGovernmentParty

Twitter: @vickweyspin

Email: victoriaweygandt@att.net

Education: BS Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: I have lived in Belleville my entire life, spending my childhood in the West End. After getting married, I moved to the East End. I have resided in Ward 7 for 35 years, and I am extremely knowledgeable of the strengths and weaknesses of the area. The experiences I gained by owning my own business and working as an outside sales executive, have afforded me the opportunity to grow businesses, increase sales and problem solve. I will use these skills to help promote economic development in the vacant properties throughout our community, find out-of-the-box solutions to unoccupied houses in my ward and assist the residents in addressing any issues or concerns they have. My life changed in 2005 when I lost my mom. This traumatic event may have led others to become fearful, but it encouraged me to become more involved. I actively help my neighbors with issues that have occurred in our neighborhood. I attend city council meetings to speak up for their cause. I started the Peace & Safety Fair, became involved in Neighborhood Watch, and joined in the Neighborhood Partnership initiative.

Top issues: Business development is important to me, filling spaces that have been vacated during the recession is a major priority. By doing so we increase tax revenue for the city and increase property values. Decreasing crime by working collaboratively with our police department and citizens. When citizens report suspicious activity or simply make a statement on what they may have seen, this can be the key to solving the crime. The police can't be everywhere, so if we as citizens get involved crime can decrease. I would like to strengthen the relationship with the County's Get Up and Go Program to build a healthier Belleville. Increasing the involvement of Neighborhood Watch, Neighborhood Partnership and Neighbors helping Neighbors, we can all make a difference in Belleville. Increasing communication by using phone calls, texts or e-mails, I will be available to answer needs and concerns promptly. The views of Ward 7 are important to me and I want to represent my constituents' concerns.

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Belleville Ward 7 Alderman

Trenton Galetti

Belleville

Age: 39

Job: attorney

Phone: 773-742-5865

Web: facebook.com/VoteTrentGaletti

Facebook: VoteTrentGaletti

Twitter:

Email: trenton73@msn.com

Education: Juris Doctor

Previous offices: None

Qualifications: I've been a licensed attorney in the state of Illinois for 10 years. I've been a home owner in Belleville for almost seven years. I closely follow political issues at all levels of government and feel I have a much better grasp of the policy issues facing our city than my opponent as evidenced by the debate that took place on Feb. 26. Anyone who wants to view that debate can email or call me for the link to the video. Or go to http://bellevilleweb.com, click on Link To videos, then Ward 7 Aldermanic debate.

Top issues: According to Jacqueline Lee's article of Feb. 16th the top issues are crime, spending, streets, sidewalks and roads. I would actually combine spending into budget and TIF reform. Crime, budget and TIF reform and housing reform are all issues that are included in the UIC's six point platform. Our platform was released well before this article and show we have the true pulse of the city.