BND Voter Guide for Madison County candidates for the Nov. 8, 2022, election

Welcome to the Belleville News-Democrat’s Voter Guide for Madison County races in the Nov. 8 election in Illinois.

The News-Democrat has contacted the candidates running for clerk/recorder and county board seats in contested races and asked them to complete a candidate questionnaire.

While this article has information about Madison County candidates, you can go to this page at bnd.com to get links to read about candidates running for governor, Congress and seats in other counties.

Here are the responses from the Madison County candidates who have replied: (The candidates are listed alphabetically.)

Madison County Clerk and Recorder

NAME: LINDA ANDREAS

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 67

Campaign website or social media page: https://Linda-Andreas.com

Office seeking: Madison County Clerk/Recorder

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No

Occupation: Retired

Education: BS WED, BS Nursing

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Vote; obey the law; pay taxes; write letters/sign petitions; donate to animal rescue & drug rehabilitation; protest; Trenton Industrial Commission (past)

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Church, family, friends

Why are you running? I have always had a strong desire to serve others which became the catalyst for my service in the health and education fields. With my background coupled with a desire to serve my country and the citizens of Madison County, I want to do all I can to bring back election integrity and to build confidence in how this county conducts record keeping duties. The true beauty of the United States is not in our institutions but in our people and how we participate in our own government. We cultivate this by building relationships with people, and not relying on institutional formulas alone.

What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? The biggest issue is not only election integrity but election confidence. Having been in a career where listening is vital, I will consistently listen to and address concerns of the citizens of Madison County. I will work to conduct more thorough audits to decrease the margin of error and publicize those results. My goal will be to use best practices and to keep the public informed so that they feel more confident to participate in their constitutional rights.

Why should people vote for you? While the only requirements to hold public office in the United States are age, citizenship and residency, I also offer my honesty and desire to serve Madison County and our great country. I will draw from my life-long experiences in administration, nursing and military life. I will bring a fresh pair of eyes to review procedures and offer new perspectives, as needed, to improve the services of the office of the clerk for the citizens of this county.

NAME: DEBBIE MING MENDOZA

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 66

Campaign website or social media page: Debbie Ming Mendoza For County Clerk on Facebook

Office seeking: Madison County Clerk Recorder

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Yes, county clerk

Occupation: Madison County Clerk Recorder

Education: Graduate Granite City Senior High

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Did not answer.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Mercie and Debbie Mendoza , Citizens for John Lakin, Realtors Political Pac

Why are you running? I am running for the office of county clerk recorder to ensure elections are conducted free of fraud and voter integrity is upheld with the utmost authority. I believe elected officials should always put their constituents first. Residents can be assured that I will serve all citizens with respect of their rights. A resident should be able to contact their county officials and speak with them directly. I make myself accessible to assist residents with services that they request.

What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? The top issue in the race for county clerk recorder is voter integrity. It is my top priority to ensure that every citizen who is a registered voter has the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote. I have worked to guarantee everyone is treated equally and fairly regardless of their political affiliation. The reputation of our county’s election process is the highest in the state. I have dedicated myself for 10 years to maintain that image. The integrity of the county clerk recorder’s office is well-managed with a highly qualified staff. I have proven time and time again that Madison County is the most important issue to me.

Why should people vote for you? For the past 10 years as Madison County Clerk, I have worked to operate an efficient and effective office. Under my administration, I was able to reduce the costs by eliminating electronic voting and implemented an efficient paper-based process. Not only is the paper ballot less expensive but is viewed as the #1 best practice for security by the Department of Homeland Security. My leadership in partnering with the Department of Homeland Security, Illinois Cyber Integrity Unit has allowed Madison County to receive weekly assessments from their agencies to ensure our rights as voters are maintained at the highest level. As county clerk, I am knowledgeable of election law and the importance to properly manage early voting. I have worked to expand the convenience for residents to vote up to 10 area sites and to vote on weekends. Following the 2020 election, I assumed the administrative oversight of the recorder’s office. Most recently I’ve enacted the Property Fraud Alert program to protect property owners by notifying them when a document is recorded in their name. Prior to becoming county clerk, I served as the chief county assessment officer for 18 years. My knowledge of the property tax system gives me firsthand experience to assist residents with their tax issues. As a fiscal manager, I removed 70% of recorder’s budget from the county general fund by implementing a subscriber user fee. The management decision I made saved every taxpayer crucial dollars, while maintaining a balanced budget. As residents exercise their right to vote this fall, I pledge that every vote will be counted, and every vote will be confidential.

Madison County Board District 2

NAME: CHARLES (CJ) METHENY

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 23

Campaign website or social media page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077040936246

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 2

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No

Occupation: Professional DJ

Education: Triad High School, and bachelors in political science at SIUE

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: From 2016 onward, I have had the pleasure to work with elected officials and those seeking office on both sides of the aisle. Especially in terms of civic engagement, I believe it is essential to understand and listen to those you disagree with.

Some of those experiences include: John Shimkus, congressman; Dwight Kay, state representative; Brendan Kelly, congressional candidate; Bob Daiber, county chair candidate.

During my academic career at SIUE, I served as the Campus Election Engagement Project’s only fellow in the state of Illinois. There I assisted with educating the student body, alongside the broader community in our voting process and the importance it holds.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Friends, family, and the community. We are grassroots and plan to keep it that way.

Why are you running? I am running to represent my hometown Troy, IL because when I look at the current Madison County Board I do not see a single face representing the younger generations. As one generation begins handing the torch to the next, our community is in need of fresh, cooperative and creative voices.

My goal is simple, to serve Christ and the people of my community with passion on the Madison County Board.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? - Civic engagement:

Specifically with the younger generations, I believe we are overdue a renewal of participation in our political process. Our current political climate is not a friendly one, with that a lot of people are less likely to participate. I take issue with that.

In the coming years, I want to see the Madison County Board take a specific interest in transparency and connection with the people of this community. Alongside this, I believe it is necessary to prioritize community education about our voting process in a nonpartisan manner. No matter what your opinion is, I believe it is our civic responsibility to vote.

Talking with community members, I hear time and time again some iteration of “I’m sick of the fighting and arguing, I just want politicians to care about people.” And I completely agree with them, it’s time for Democrats and Republicans to stop fighting and start getting things done.

- Smart growth:

It seems like every couple of weeks we see a new construction site or business in our community. It is hard to miss, our community is being developed at a rapid rate.

With this growth, it is elected officials’ responsibility to ensure the longevity and sustainability of this change. Our community deserves leaders who make choices that will benefit them in the long term, and right now it seems like the leaders of Madison County are more interested in what benefits them in the short term.

In the future, I want to see Madison County make choices that will preserve and bolster property value. Alongside that, I want to see leadership defend our community’s natural landscapes over large development. I firmly believe that as a county we shouldn’t trade green space for a parking lot.

Why should people vote for you? As the youngest candidate for Madison County Board in the 2022 election, I bring a new and fresh perspective to our county’s leadership.

I firmly believe it is time for cooperation. Regardless of what your political views are, I am interested in hearing your concerns. I want to be a voice for every member of my community, not just those who agree with me. I want every resident of Madison County District 2 to know, no matter your views, you have an advocate for your voice on the Madison County Board.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? As for my personal opinion on Kurt Prenzler’s performance as chairman, I spent the 2020 election on a campaign running against Kurt, and I think that speaks for itself.

As for the hard facts of his performance, I look at the numbers. Kurt is involved with lawsuits with respect to decisions he made as chairman. These suits are totaling millions of dollars, financed by the good people of Madison County. What that says about his performance? I leave that for the voters to decide.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? This summer, the Madison County Board shifted some of Chairman Kurt’s responsibilities to a chair and vice chair pro tem. This decision was a direct result the chairman’s incompetence and infighting within the Madison County Republican Party.

What concerns me about this is not the choice to shift responsibilities. Rather, I am alarmed by Republican Madison County Board members abusing this as an opportunity to gain power instead of focusing on the damage done to our community.

NAME: STACEY PACE

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 46

Campaign website or social media page: www.votestaceypace.com

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 2

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Madison County Board District 2

Occupation: Payroll and accounts receivable specialist

Education: B.A. communication/public relations

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Madison County Republican Central Committee member, precinct committeeman Jarvis 9, Metro Community Church Member, FCA Metro East Board member

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Greater Gateway Realtors Association, individual contributors

Why are you running? I am running for Madison County Board to bring a conservative, committed and common-sense approach to Madison County government. My goal is to ensure that our county remains an excellent place for our citizens to thrive.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? First, the number one issue our residents face is our tax burden. We have held the tax levy steady at the county level and I will keep pushing for that.

Second, I will continue to promote fiscal responsibility at the county level, challenging expenses and projects where appropriate. I will empower the department heads to make wise choices about each purchase and adhere to their budgets where appropriate.

Why should people vote for you? I have spent the last two years learning how each department in the county functions and how they work together to keep our county operating efficiently. With this solid foundation, as well as the relationships I have made with local and county officials, I feel I am very qualified for this position and look forward to serving Troy and Madison County residents for the next four years.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? The chairman is doing what he believes to be best for the county. That said, there have been some missteps along the way. I believe that the board is listening to our county employees and our constituents, processing their feedback and taking the appropriate action to move our county forward.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Yes, I voted to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem. At that time, the chairman’s appointments were questionable and I felt this was the best short-term solution.

Madison County Board District 8

NAME: MICHAEL HOLLIDAY SR.

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 78

Campaign website or social media page: michaelhollidaysr0@gmail.com/ Michael Holliday Sr Facebook

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 8

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Ward Alderman, Alton, IL, Mayor, Alton, IL

Occupation: Retired from Olin Corp., 39 years

Education: High school graduate, completed four-year machinist apprenticeship

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Worked on Carol Moseley Braun campaign, Downstate organizer for Senate campaign for Barack Obama, as well as his presidential campaign. Worked on the campaign of Bob Daiber for governor of Illinois.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Self

Why are you running? I am running to be a voice for the citizens that feel their concerns are not being addressed. There are issues pertaining to our senior citizens, our veterans, those with mental issues that need someone to speak up for. I will continue to speak up for their rights to be represented and to have their concerns addressed. Our union members need a voice at the table and I will continue to support union members. I will continue to address the governance of our county government. Our leadership must be held accountable for its management, compliance and administration of governmental decisions. I value truth, honesty, and integrity and I vow to carry on these to the highest standard I can. The Madison County Board is the County Board of Health, and I will continue to advocate that we look out for the best interest of the health of the citizens of Madison County. I am truly a servant to the citizens of Madison County. My compassion and servitude has been acknowledged outside Madison County. I was elected president of the Illinois Association of Local Boards of Health, for which I am their spokesperson, I was elected to the National Executive Board of the National Association of Local Boards of Health, and I was elected president of the Illinois Association of County Board Members and Commissioners. These elections show what people all over the state of Illinois and nationally believe in my leadership qualities.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? My top issue is for Madison County to adhere to a program that will help people with mental issues get help prior to being put in jails, and to help with tracking them after release to make sure they are receiving help to cut down on recidivism. My other topic is the fact that Covid-19 is still prevalent, and we must still be aware of it and take responsible measures to mitigate it.

Why should people vote for you? I have shown that I am honest, trustworthy and compassionate about serving the citizens of Madison County, and Illinois. I do not have a agenda to alter the services Madison County is offering. I am open-minded to discuss issues the board has to deal with, and I am about voting for issues that are in the best interest for the majority of the citizens of Madison County.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? He does not let board members have the input on issues. He does not give Democrats the ability to chair important committees.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I do. Board members had no input on appointment of the various boards in Madison County.

Did not respond

Michael Velloff, the Republican candidate in Madison County Board District 8, did not respond to the Belleville News-Democrat questionnaire.

Madison County Board District 9

NAME: BRUCE C. EGELHOFF

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 67

Campaign website or social media page: bruceegelhoff.squarespace.com also FB, Twitter and Instagram

Office seeking: Madison County Board seat District 9

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No

Occupation: Retired sales account executive for Wm. F. Brockman Co., co-owner of J. E. M. Properties Limited, a real estate investment company.

Education: Studied at SIUE

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Restored over 30 homes in my neighborhood in Upper Alton, volunteer for Upper Alton Business Association, Member of Illinois REIA and other civic organizations.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? John Carll, Barb Underwood, Robert Barnhart

Why are you running? Having retired in 2017, I find myself with the time to give back to Alton and Madison County. My objective will be to lobby the county board to funnel as many funds as possible that flow through Madison County, to the City of Alton.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Creating and retaining employment opportunities. Safeguarding the citizens of Alton from special Interest groups influencing local government. Preserving and enhancing Alton’s housing stock appropriately.

Why should people vote for you? I have been a supporter of Alton my entire adult life and have lived in Alton for 30 plus years. I am heavily invested in the real estate market of Alton, mainly in Upper Alton. Along with two partners, we decided to start a real estate investment company in 1993. Nearly all of the 30 plus restorations have been in Upper Alton. We are hands-on landlords and I live within 500 feet of eight of our currently owned rental properties. The rest, with the exception of one, are no more than 1 mile from my home. With an intense interest in seeing Alton thrive, I would like to serve as a county board member to do my best to see that Alton, as well as Madison County, thrives in the future.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? I think this is a complex issue with many factors known best to the currently seated board members.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I believe presuming to second guess their decision on internal management issues would be inappropriate at this time.

NAME: BILL STOUTENBOROUGH

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: Young and active 82

Campaign website or social media page: None

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 9

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) This is the first campaign for an elected office. Previously have been appointed to the Alton City Planning Commission by four different mayors over a period of 15 years.

Occupation: Currently I am semi-retired as owner/manager of Energy Solutions Inc. Previously worked for Price Waterhouse & Co., an international public accounting firm as a manager before going into industry as controller of a division.

Education: Graduated from Millikin University with a business administration degree.

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: As president of the Upper Alton Association, was instrumental in having a United States Garrison flag carried in the historical Alton Memorial Day Parade -- that gained attention by being shown on national TV. Also lead the fundraising for 102 flags that decorated the streets of Upper Alton on national holidays. Working with State Sen. Vadalabene and U.S. Rep. Costello, brought the Presidential Guard Fife and Drum to perform in the Alton Memorial Day Parade Serving as Treasurer and President of the Greater Alton Concert Association, more than doubled the income of the organization which enabled higher quality of concerts.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? The majority of campaign funds were self-financed.

Why are you running? We live in a different world of political instability because of “alternative facts” and political differences. Having served nearly a full term on the Madison County Board, there is a continual need for stability. The majority party of the past Board, split from its leader in controversial fashion. Bottom line, we need to work together and I have been complimented for reducing the tension in those meetings. The board will best fulfill its responsibilities of both parties being equally represented and working as a team.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Foremost, the county board chairmen has the power to appoint (with board approval) about 70 people to the board of directors of various agencies. Politics can not be separated from the selection of candidates, but it is the board’s responsibility of oversight concerning qualifications and merits of the appointees. Second, of the several agencies which are audited by independent accounting firms, it is important the selection of auditors be based on quality of audits, not by political preference. Having over 10 years experience in public accounting, I believe Madison County should have an Audit Committee, just as every major corporation has in the financial world. I will continue to work to have such a committee.

Why should people vote for you? I have the experience and fortitude to pursue what’s best for the citizens and employees of Madison County.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? This is not a short answer question. The Post-Dispatch took over a half page to assess the situation. Bottom line, Chairman Prenzler attempted to overturn the vote that stripped him of employment powers. As I recall, his motion to rescind was defeated 22 to 3. I was one of that majority. It was his own party that highlighted that over $2,000,000 had been litigated primarily because of his actions.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I support the reduction of authority of the chairman. Moving that responsibility to the chairperson pro tem was the best alternative available.

Madison County Board District 16

NAME: CHRIS HANKINS

Political party: Democratic

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 50

Campaign website or social media page: https://m.facebook.com/100064044970360/

Office seeking: Madison County Board member District 16

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) 2018 Madison County Board, 2011/2015 Pontoon Beach Village Board

Occupation: IBEW Local Union 309 assistant business manager

Education: Associate degree Ranken College industrial electricity/electronics

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Madison County Board member District 16; Pontoon Beach Planning Commission; Pontoon Beach Public Water District chairman; Children’s Advocacy Centers of Illinois Board; Volunteer Party at the (Pontoon) Beach festival; past vice president Collinsville Soccer Association; past Pontoon Beach Police Pension Board member; past coach Granite City Wrestling Club; volunteer - Build Madison HS football goal post; volunteer various clean up projects at Long Lake.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? IBEW Illinois State Conference, IBEW 309, IBEW 1

Why are you running? I like to be in a position to help people. I use my personal life and work experiences to make common-sense decisions that will make life better for my constituents.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? 1. Keep the tax levy the same by being prudent and making smart budget decisions and not wasting resources.

2. Supporting public safety workers by ensuring that our first responders have the necessary resources to do their jobs properly and providing equipment that will help keep them safe.

Both of these issues require more economic growth. I am most proud of is the new development in Pontoon Beach. Businesses like Amazon distribution provides much needed sales tax to support our local needs.

Why should people vote for you? I have a natural ability to get people to work together in a bipartisan manner in order to get things done.

I care about our community and want to help make people’s lives better.

I am always accessible through either through my cellphone or social media.

If there is an issue I can help with, I will do whatever I can.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? Mr Prenzler is deficient in his leadership skills and is unwilling or unable to communicate effectively.

Many fellow board members, including myself have reached out to offer him help but were ignored.

He is dismissive of ideas that are not his own.

An effective leader needs to listen to his board members and not be so fearful of change. There is also a lack of empathy.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Yes, it was something that was needed in order to to be more effective and responsive to our constituents.

I did not take this action lightly, but I chose to vote for this action because it was in the best interest of the citizens of Madison County. Those duties are the law and were originally duties of the county board. At some point the county board delegated those to the chairman.

The current board realized the choices being made by the chairman were ineffective and felt it was best to give those duties back to the county board. This seriousness of the issue with the lack of confidence with the chairman is reflected in the bi-partisan vote of 21-4 by the board.

Did not respond

Robert Meyer, the Republican candidate in Madison County Board District 16, did not respond to the Belleville News-Democrat questionnaire.

Madison County Board District 17

NAME: SHAUN ARNOLD

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 40

Campaign website or social media page: None

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 17

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No

Occupation: Sales & marketing

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance and real estate, Florida State University; MBA, University of Florida

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: President of my neighborhood HOA; Volunteer coach for my children’s various sporting activities

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Self-funded thus far.

Why are you running? Felt the timing was appropriate to offer up my skill set in service to the community.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? I think the county should be focused on fiscal responsibility and debt reduction. Elimination of waste and a focus on spending efficiency should allow the county to maintain, and even improve services, during an economic downturn.

Why should people vote for you? I am a common-sense political outsider. I don’t seek office for any reason other than to be an asset to - and advocate for - the community at-large. The sense of neighborliness and cohesive attitude of our community are what originally drew our family into Madison County; I want to be a part of keeping those attributes a part of our community going forward.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? The chairman has done a good job as a steward of the county’s finances - particularly in lowering the overall tax burden borne by Madison County residents.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Not enough time has elapsed under the new pro tem measures to offer up a position one way or the other.

NAME: VICTOR VALENTINE JR.

Political party: Democratic

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 56

Campaign website or social media page: Working on a new one.

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 17

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No, only the County Board

Occupation: HR Director for Bria Health Care

Education: Bachelor of science degree in marketing from Illinois State University

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: I participate in a couple food banks as well as collecting clothing for the needy. My kids and I visit nursing homes around the holidays.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Family, AFSCME and the Democratic Party of Madison County

Why are you running? I want to continue being a voice for those that are looked over. I will continue to vote for the rights of the people. Speaking for the majority in my district.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Continue to fight to keep our county safe and healthy. We must do what’s right for our families as it pertains to the viruses currently and in the future. Also, we must do our due diligence to fight crime. I do not believe in defunding our police.

Why should people vote for you? I stand for them. I serve for them. I listen to all the views in my district.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? I wish he would get more points of view before making a big decisions.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Yes. I wish Kurt would have consulted with other board members before many of his appointments. The pro tem will make better decisions.

Madison County Board District 18

NAME: ERIC CRONY

NAME: ALISON LAMOTHE

Political party: Democratic

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 61

Campaign website or social media page: Facebook: Alison Lamothe for Madison County Board

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 18

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Yes: Edwardsville Precinct 16 Committee Person

Occupation: Lecturer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Education: BA in studio art from the University of New Hampshire; MA in Latin American literature and culture from Boston College; PhD in contemporary Latin American literature from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Policy Board secretary, First Unitarian Church of St. Louis; vice president and 2nd vice president, Non-Tenure Track Faculty Association; second vice president and executive board member, Edwardsville Area League of Women Voters; served on the Citizen Advisory Committee for Edwardsville School District 7; Edwardsville Precinct 16 Committee Person; volunteer for the Main Street Community Center in Edwardsville and the Immigrant Community Action Project (MICA)

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Non-Tenure Track Faculty Association; Edwardsville Township Democrats; individual contributors

Why are you running? I am running because I care about my community. I care about smart growth and fiscal responsibility. I believe in good government and think the county board can function better.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? One of the county’s duties is to run elections. I will vote to preserve resources dedicated to citizens’ access to and right to vote.

Another duty is to protect public health. I attended county board meetings concerning proposed resolutions regarding vaccination and testing mandates. I was dismayed by the amount of disinformation and conspiracy theories shared by members of the general public as well as some members of the county board itself. I believe firmly that any policy regarding public health should be evidence-based and not based on political or religious ideology. I will vote to protect the Madison County Health Department and to promote community health.

Why should people vote for you? I am an educator and a mom. I am committed to public service. I will bring accountability, balance and civility to the county board.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? A recent St. Louis Post-Dispatch article described him as the Metro East’s Trump. I imagine he considered this a compliment. I do not.

He has been a very divisive figure on the county board. The dissent is bipartisan.

I think he has spent too much time and resources fomenting division and political drama.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I attended the special meeting in July during which a super majority of the board voted to strip Prenzler of some of his duties. Republican members of the board offered all of the arguments in favor of this reduction of responsibilities. These were members who in the past had supported Prenzler but who had come to the conclusion that his decisions had cost the county too much money and caused too much turbulence. The votes in favor were bipartisan and I agreed with their decision.

Madison County Board District 19

NAME: NICK PETRILLO

Political party: Madison County Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 75

Campaign website or social media page: Have none

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 19

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Granite City alderman

Occupation: Retired educator

Education: Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in education

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Granite City Restore and Renew

Who are your top three campaign contributors? None

Why are you running? Considering my past experiences, I feel I am the best candidate to represent and serve Madison County District 19.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Crime - many of our criminals are repeat offenders. NACo has promoted a program called “Step Up.” We identify those that have mental health issues and get them to the agencies that can best address their issue and attempt to keep them out of this “revolving door.” I serve as liaison for the county board and the mental health board.

Quality of life - which involves good homes and jobs. Serving on the “Building and Zoning” committee is a very important part of quality of life. Zoning areas of our county is very important to maintaining home values and, yet, providing areas for businesses to grow and flourish.

Why should people vote for you? I am known for my honesty, integrity and common sense in dealing with issues that come before this county board.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? That can be best answered by his own party members that initiated the movement to reduce his duties. With which I agreed.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I do.

NAME: DONALD SAWICKI

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 67

Campaign website or social media page: www.otadtv.com/cb19

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 19

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) I ran as a Republican for county board in 2012, and was endorsed by the St Louis Post-Dispatch.

Occupation: Retired engineer

Education: Bachelor of science electrical engineering (BSEE) University of Illinois - Champaign / Urbana

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: I received a letter of commendation from the Granite City Chief of Police for assisting in the capture of the “Anchorage Homes Burgler.” This felon was responsible for 15 burglaries and an armed robbery. He liked to break into elderly people’s homes, while they were home.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? My campaign is under the statutory limit for disclosure at this time.

Why are you running? Too many county board actions are responsible for multiple foolish and costly lawsuits against the county. These board actions were based on groundless or weak reasons, and have cost and continue to cost the county big bucks for lawsuits. It appears the board is afraid of public transparency, I am for transparency. It boils down to a board power grab and throwback to “the good old days.” Those days are gone and I don’t want to see them come back. It’s time to cease the madness, ignore the falsehoods, evaluate the real facts, and stop the politics.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? I would initiate and vote to restore all the county board chairman (elected by the public) duties removed by the board and assigned to the board’s choice for pro tem. I would also support a public vote on enacting PTELL, limits property tax excessive increases. Only the board can put PTELL on the ballot, not a petition. Elite special interest are strongly against this and will fight it.

Why should people vote for you? I will look out for the public interest, including “creditable” special public interest, but never a political party’s interest or misguided special interest. Also the current county board is responsible for multiple unnecessary lawsuits, and needs more members to help prevent this nonsense.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? Chairman Prenzler’s performance has been excellent. He has multiple accomplishments in spite of Democrat resistance and board ineptitude. The public, including many Democrats and former Democrats, are impressed with Kurt. The primary election results support the public’s approval of Kurt. I agree with public sentiment.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? No, the public elected Kurt for those duties, not the board selected pro tem. The public voted out that nonsense years ago. I’m familiar with the reasons for this action, they are totally baseless, lame or just pure gibberish. The board’s actions were unwarranted and unwise, and will haunt the county for years. The county swamp is upset with Kurt’s results, but the public approves.

Madison County Board District 21

NAME: EMILY GAVILSKY

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 35

Campaign website or social media page: Emily Gavilsky for Madison County Board on Facebook

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 21

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) No

Occupation: Business owner: I own Emily Anna Events, a nonprofit & wedding event planning business. I also own Tinseltown, an event pop-up venue.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology & master’s degree in professional counseling

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Chairperson of Billie’s Kids Christmas, a program that served over 450 children and their families last year. Secretary and board member of the Granite City Area Community Foundation. Member of the Tri-Cities Area United Way Auxiliary Board. Volunteer for Coordinated Youth & Human Services.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? TBD: fundraisers held in the next few weeks

Why are you running? I am running because I care about the people of our county and want to ensure that decisions are made with their needs in mind. I will listen to their concerns and create action based plans to address those concerns.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Fiscal responsibility and safe communities are two areas of focus of my campaign. I will address fiscal responsibility by focusing on the county budget and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent in ways that best serve our community and as such create safe neighborhoods.

Why should people vote for you? I am a strong leader who is transparent and believes in listening to the needs of people in our community. I am an independent thinker and will make decisions based on what I believe is best for the majority. I believe that our local government has a huge impact on the daily lives of those living in our county and I want to be a reasonable, level headed voice for those people and ensure their concerns and needs are heard.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? I do not believe the performance of Kurt Prenzler has been acceptable.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I support the measures taken as it is important to have checks and balances in place and ensure transparency, fairness and that our community and county is focused on doing the right thing and making choices that positively impact constituents.

NAME: JOHN JOSEPH JANEK

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 75

Campaign website or social media page: John J. Janek for Madison County Board District 21 Republican on Facebook

Office seeking: Madison County Board member for District 21

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? Yes, I ran for the Granite City School Board

Occupation: Retired Meatcutters Local 534; retired owner John’s Vending Service; present owner and licensed landlord.

Education: 1964 Graduate Granite City High School; Southern Illinois University (general studies two years); United States Air Force (four years medical supply); licensed Real Estate salesman; licensed Illinois High School Association wrestling referee

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Chairman Granite City Planning and Zoning for four years (non pay); chairman Granite City Graphic Review Board four years (non pay); Holy Family Catholic Church member and reader; member Planning and Zoning 12 years (non pay); member Granite City Elks 50 years; member Granite City Knights of Columbus; past PTA president for Niedringhaus School Granite City; past volunteer Niedringhaus hall monitor; past coach for Granite Khoury League Baseball; past Granite City Boosters president and contributor.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? I have no major campaign contributors and expenses were held at a minimum using personal contact and conversations with citizens. Social media, friends and family contributed to my campaigning process.

Why are you running? I am proud to be a Madison County resident. My family has benefited in many ways from living here. District 21 is extremely diverse. Our county has so many beneficial programs available for its residents.

By frequently speaking with the people all over Madison County and in District 21 and attending the board meetings, I intend to be an active representative in our district’s decisions and to further our improvements.

It is important to get the word out to all of the residents about the positive things we offer in Madison County. In the same respect, it is important to hear the ideas or complaints (constructive criticism).

I plan to further expand my knowledge of Madison County government. I hope to have continual and up-to-date communication with as many residents as possible. This will ensure transparency and keep current communication with the citizens of Madison County District 21.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Most Madison County residents do not know about our county government or the current policies on spending and/or funding (taxes, expenses, payment procedures and expenditure distributions). Storm water drainage in our area is a big concern and needs continual monitoring and changes made accordingly.

We need better communication of our district policies and practices. We must improve communication with our residents.

Why should people vote for you? Once again, I love being a Madison County resident. It is my lifelong home. We raised our four children, who all participated in sports and graduated from GCHS. Our son, Chris, owns and operates his business in Madison County. Our son, Jake, is a GCHS teacher and coach. My wife just retired from teaching here. Living in Madison County has been a blessing for my family.

It is important for me to be able to communicate and be available for both positive and negative input from the residents.

By pulling together, we can create healthy communication and move forward with productive progress. There are always numerous ideas and solutions to any problems that the people in District 21 are facing currently.

I will not be self-indulgent nor become further out of touch with the reality that ordinary families are experiencing in District 21. In addition, I will be accessible by continually trying to speak with and listen to as many people as possible.

I plan to find out what the everyday citizen wants of me or/and of this district. District 21 is extremely diverse. It is made up of wealthy area homes to low income homes. It has a population of 9,020 residents as of the latest redistricting figures.

District 21 has diverse political views on voting issues. My plea, to the people I come in contact with or talk with, will be:

• Get registered.

• Research the qualifications of those in charge of Madison County government.

• Get involved.

• “Just make sure to make an educated vote!”

Let’s work together to create a prepared and productive Madison County District 21!

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? Our Madison County Board Chairman, Kurt Prenzler, was elected to do a job that he takes very seriously. He has many accomplishments: They are listed on his site along with many others. Here are a few:

“Kurt has been vigilant in stopping overspending. During his time in office, Kurt has: stopped three separate sales tax increases; repaired the jail with no debt and under budget; and reduced the county-portion of property taxes by nearly $2 million.”

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? No, I do not support the measures taken.

The chairman (Kurt Prenzler) was elected to do chairman duties by 70,000 people. The people voted not to have the chairman appointed. The measures taken “appointed” others. People voted against appointing. This should have been taken to the voters.

Protocol must be used when a change is needed or desired. After speaking with residents, this particular change gave the appearance of being a political move without the consideration or/and the input from the voters.It did not follow proper protocol.

Madison County District 24

NAME: ERIKA KOHOUTEK

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 47

Campaign website or social media page: https://www.facebook.com/Erika4MadCo24/

Office seeking: Madison County Board member for District 24

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) I have not run for elected office before.

Occupation: Portfolio lead (project management)

Education: Master of arts in computer resources and information management – Webster University and bachelor of arts in English – Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: My civic involvement has included volunteering for BJC Hospice, being part of Team RunWell for a Reason while fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, participating in Edwardsville District 7 School Board and Madison County Board meetings.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? I am proud to say my campaign has been funded by family and friends.

Why are you running? It is important to me to have a functioning and thriving Madison County Board that is delivering for the community. I’ve attended board meetings and here’s the bottom line: the Madison County Board is in chaos. When an organization is in chaos, it cannot deliver for its constituents. I want to bring back the spirit of cooperation that for many years kept our county on track and moving forward. I believe in partnership over partisanship.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? I am running to make sure our taxes are not wasted on mismanagement, rather that our tax dollars are reinvested in our community. I am also running to make sure our community grows in a smart, deliberate and planned way.

Why should people vote for you? As someone with 25 years of private sector experience, I’ll bring my skills as a project manager to the county board to be a leader who has the courage to speak up and the good sense to sit down and listen. I will be a watchdog of the county funds and an advocate for taxpayers while partnering with all board members to foster teamwork, to focus on what’s important and to eliminate distractions. I will be a voice of reason to hold the county chairman and his team accountable for mismanagement and bad decisions. I want to be a “good neighbor” board member - always there to listen and ready to help when you call.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? One of the reasons I am running is because of the mismanagement and chaos created by the current Madison County Board chairman.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? I do support the measures taken by the county board. It is encouraging that the board came together in a bipartisan way to attempt to get the county board back on track. I will continue in the spirit of bipartisanship and it will be my number one priority to cut through the noise and start delivering for our community.

NAME: CHARLES “SKIP” SCHMIDT

Political party: Republican

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 73

Campaign website or social media page: cqskip9@gmail.com

Office seeking: Madison County Board District 24

Are you an incumbent? Yes

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Edwardsville Alderman / Edwardsville / Glen Carbon Illinois

Occupation: Retired

Education: MS history / MBA human service relations

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: 14 year Rotarian, (both Rotaries due to employment); Creator “Gentleman’s Night Out” fundraiser (11) years, $32,000; Member of Board-Faith in Action; 14 year member of Edwadsville (RASE) Recreation, Arts & Special Events Committee; Wildey Theater (marketing); Post 199 Legion fundraising events over the years to support our veterans.

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Myself and friends

Why are you running? Service above self / Common-sense agenda / lower property taxes when applicable!

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Taxes, vote taxes down unless they are necessary for the public good! Help small businesses in coming to Madison County development that is needed. Improved infrastructure.

Why should people vote for you? My record of honest community service, looking out for my constituents.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? Not a popular job, he is very professional, well educated and a CPA! Being a strong Republican is not beneficial in our county. He has helped to improve his party’s posture. I do not personalize my approach in choosing the best candidate, I go on his or her record and platform. He is my choice based on his performance under harsh circumstances.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Hell no, nothing about it was handled above board; normal Illinois politics.

Madison County Board District 26

NAME: COLLIN VANMETER

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 35

Campaign website or social media page: https://www.facebook.com/CollinVanMeterforMCB

Office seeking: Madison County Board member for District 26

Are you an incumbent? No

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought) Madison County Board member (2020)

Occupation: IT desktop engineer

Education: High school diploma, bachelors of science in political science, masters of science in computer management and information systems.

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Elected board trustee for IL State University Retirement System, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville elected staff senator

Who are your top three campaign contributors? Self-funded, AFSCME, and small individual contributors

Why are you running? I am running to make the Madison County Board work more for the people of the county rather than small political interests. I would like to see the board more balanced in its actions so it better reflects the actual makeup of Madison County.

What are the top two issues in your race, and how would you address them? Local government has become too political, I am running to do what I can to change that by working with citizens and other local leaders to bring a greater transparency to the county board. Second, we need to redefine what the county board does and what we as residents expect from it. I am looking to increase the efficiency of the Madison County Board by focusing on the needs of the county and the people who live here.

Why should people vote for you? When I look at the county board, and the partisanship and games that have occurred over the past few years, I get an urge to change it. My sense of community and my history of supporting change even when it might not be popular really made it a simple choice. I want to bring our county board back to basics, to make it about our community and what we can do to help all the people that live here, not just those in one party. That’s why I am running to be a voice for my district and to make our local government work for all of us again.

How would you assess the performance of Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler? The county board should not be based off of one person’s political opinions. It is a democratic organization that supports the people of this county. Wasting time on non-binding ballot initiatives and dealing with numerous lawsuits is a drain on county resources and I would like to see a different, more transparent and cooperative form of leadership from this position.

Do you support the measures taken this summer by the Madison County Board to give additional duties to the chairperson pro tem? Why or why not? Yes I do support the measures taken by the county board. The new rules allow for a more democratic and transparent approach to the hiring of department heads and ensures major decisions are put toward the entire board instead of one person.

Did not respond

Jason Palmero, the Republican candidate in Madison County Board District 26, did not respond to the Belleville News-Democrat questionnaire.

This story was originally published September 30, 2022 at 5:30 AM.