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Politics & Government

Election Issues: Rose Spears

Yorkville Patch asked all the candidates in contested city races the same four questions. Here are Rose Spear's answers in the race for Ward 4 alderman.

With election season in full swing, Yorkville Patch wanted to give readers a clear view of how local candidates compared on recent issues that surfaced before the City Council. Below are the answers from incumbent , who is running against Marty Michalisko for alderman in Ward 4. Michalisko's answers can be found here.

Links to all of Yorkville Patch's candidate profiles and questionnaires can be found .

Alderman Candidate Rose Spears

•  Did you vote to place a binding bike trails referendum on the April 5 ballot? Why?

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I voted against placing a binding bike trails referendum on the April 5 ballot. Before the November election, council and the mayor discussed and agreed residents will decide when casting their November votes.  Residents voted … the question failed. Shortly after the vote failed, the binding bike trails referendum was presented once again and voted on by the council. The four council members voting to disregard the residents’ November vote lost creditability in the eyes of many residents.

 • Looking at the water and sewer bond problem the City Council faced this winter in the 2011-2012 fiscal year, what do you think is the best solution?

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I am aware the bonds must be paid. The city cannot lose their bond rating creditability and/or face litigation.  However, this administration must discontinue allocating funding for projects when funding is not available. No additional endeavors must be considered until all debt is paid. The majority of council continues to approve applying for grants (although the city does not have matching grant funds); purchasing properties; maintaining non-essential departments the city could fully function without.

• Looking at the water and sewer bond problem for fiscal year 2012-2013 and beyond, what do you think is the best solution? Do you favor the proposed sales tax increase?

I have a very difficult time supporting raising taxes. Additional budget cuts can and should be made. Serious and significant large and small cuts have been presented; response received: “small budget cuts will not make a difference”.

I do not favor the proposed sales tax increase.  In speaking with numerous business owners, I have repeatedly been told they are also struggling financially; and, with the proposed tax several are considering relocating.  The city can’t afford this.

• How would you characterize the working relationships among current City Council members? How do you think you work/would work within that environment? 

I have always approached my duties as alderman with professionalism and respect. It is for everyone’s benefit if council members work cooperatively in dealing with the serious issues facing our city. A good leader would inform all aldermen of city issues in order to assist in our decision-making process.  It is disheartening to become informed of city-related issues by the media.  Council members not be recognized/permitted to speak during meetings has been another obstacle.

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