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CRISTINA CASTRO DEMOCRAT FOR KANE COUNTY BOARD 20th DISTRICT
LEADERSHIP, VISION, INTEGRITY
Proven Community Leader
Life-Long District Resident Member IEA Region 25
Marketing Professional, Elgin Community College
MBA Candidate, Northern Illinois University
VOTE FOR CHANGE,
VOTE CASTRO
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Castro Endorsed by Daily Herald!
Our picks for Kane County offices Daily Herald Editorial Board Published: 10/27/2008 12:03 AM Kane County Board District 20: Democrat Cristina Castro over Green Party candidate Julie Schmitt and Republican Ruth Rauschenberger, who was slated to run only after Larry Wegman dropped out of the race. Rauschenberger's political experience consists of helping on campaigns of her son, former state Sen. Steve Rauschenberger. Castro has experience on local boards. She and and Rauschenberger share conservative views on finances.
Courier News Article
Issues I plan to address if elected Kane District 20 board member October 15, 2008
One of the reasons why I decided t o run for the Kane County Board District 20 seat was to provide my constituents, the district and the city of Elgin with effective leadership at the county level. The district and the city need an active, engaged and effective leader who will stand up and fight for important issues.
One issue that resonates not only with me but also with many of you is government accountability. The current county board has been fiscally irresponsible with taxpayer money. For example, under the current administration, the county has seen a more than 300 percent increase in the use of outside consultants and lobbyists, while access to health care and other vital services are reduced. Why? There is a legislative committee comprised of county board members. Don't they regularly communicate with state and federal lawmakers on the needs of the county? If not, why not?
When elected, I will ask those tough questions, in addition to reviewing previous years' budgets and conducting a comprehensive analysis to determine where costs have increased, why they have increased, and determine what cuts are truly needed.
Another issue affecting many people in the district is transportation. The county's current response has been lackluster and inept. After the mass transit bill was passed, a special county board meeting was held at the Riverside Club in Geneva to discuss the distribution of the extra sales tax revenue. At this meeting, the chairman made note that the board would contribute a portion of the extra revenue to Ride-in-Kane.
At a recent RTA public hearing, I was informed by a Ride-in-Kane administrator that the county does not contribute to its funding as previously proposed by the chairman. If other municipalities and service organizations are contributing, why isn't the county? Why isn't the county board working with diligently with Pace and RTA to expand public transportation options in Elgin and the rest of the county? Increasing the mobility of residents in and out of my district is not only needed but possible.
A third issue is the lack of communication between the county board and the citizens and city of Elgin. This lack of communication leaves the city and District 20 residents in the dark on how county policies affect them or what new services are available to them. It is our responsibility as elected officials to communicate this information to our constituents and the city in every way we can.
When elected, I will keep the district and city informed of county policies and services by sending regular updates, establishing a Web site and attending local community, neighborhood and city council meetings. In addition, I will act as a conduit between the county, my constituents and the city and be readily accessible to all those I serve via e-mail and by phone.
Change is needed on the Kane County Board and I know I will bring about that change to the 20th District. I promise to ask the tough questions, stop the careless spending and effectively communicate with you. I ask for your support and your vote on Nov. 4. If you have any questions please visit my Web site, www.castroforkane.org, or e-mail me directly at castroforkane@yahoo.com.
Cristina Castro is the Democratic Party candidate for Kane County Board District 20 in northeast Elgin.
Daily Herald Q&A with Castro
1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what? What will be your main priority?
To provide the effective leadership that my district is currently lacking. My constituents and the city of Elgin need an active, engaged and effective leader who will stand up and fight for important issues. I am eager to represent my constituents and Elgin on the Kane County Board. Transportation is my top priority. Increasing the mobility of residents in and out of my district is both needed and possible.
2. For incumbents and non-incumbents. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.
Currently in my district, there is a lack of communication between the Kane County Board and the citizens and city of Elgin. This lack of communication leaves the city and my constituents in the dark on how county policies affect them. When elected, I would act as a conduit between the county, my constituents and the city of Elgin. I will attend regular community, neighborhood, and city council meetings in my district to meet this objective.
3. Do you support moving all county offices to one home surrounding the judicial center? If so, what should be done with the current county government property and buildings on Batavia Avenue? If not, then what's the best use for the remaining acreage at the judicial center?
I am not in favor of moving all county offices to one home surrounding the judicial center. There are many opportunities to consolidate some offices together without having to spend millions of dollars in constructing new facilities. For example, the county's recorder's office, because of modernization, is an office we might consider merging with another county office. There are also many unanswered questions on how this would impact residents who live around the judicial center and how the increased traffic would impact the area. How much taxpayer money would this require? Since the county is seeing an explosion in growth, it makes sense for the remaining acreage at the judicial center be utilized for future expansions of the county jail (which has already exceeded capacity), sheriff's office, and even the judicial center. With the judicial center there is a need for a separate and secure entrance and exit for judges and jurors in order to limit their contact with the general public and defendants. However at this point, the county board needs to focus on how it is going to address economic and budgetary issues affecting the county first and foremost, before it can even think about studying the viability of having all government offices at the judicial center.
4. Kane County continues to experience a population explosion. What are the areas and services you believe will be most challenged by this growth? Where will the money come from to extend and increase services to these new residents?
All county services will be challenged by this continued growth. For instance, with an increase in population, unfortunately comes an increase in crime. The sheriff's office will need to hire more officers in order to expand its patrol of the county. With this need for expanded patrol there will also be a need to purchase new county police vehicles. In order to assist in funding the increase needs of each affected area, I will communicate and work with our state and federal lawmakers to help bring back dollars to fund the needs of the departments. It is essential that the county offices charged with keeping the citizens informed and safe receive the adequate funding needed to operate effectively and efficiently.
5. The county has taken a leadership role in studying the issue of long-term water supply maintenance and protection. What should the county's emphasis be in this area over the next few years? Explain.
By conserving water, not only do residents and businesses see a benefit in reduced water bills, they also help avert water pollution in lakes, rivers, and watersheds which are essential in sustainability of the county's water supply. One way to do this is by the county working together with developers to ensure parking lots are engineered so that water is absorbed, rather than running off as stormwater. This could be done by using permeable paving materials, as the county uses in front of the county building, or in planted areas designed to absorb water around the parking lots. Another area of emphasis is to educate constituents, business and municipalities on the importance of water conservation. For example, instead of using city water businesses and homeowners can store rain water by using rain catch barrels and use it in the irrigation of landscaping and plants. For municipalities, water conservation can help ease the overloading of sewer systems which in turn overflow into the lakes and rivers polluting them. Educating and working with our constituents and municipalities will help the county in its efforts in water supply sustainability and protection.
6. Transportation issues continue to be a major concern to residents. How would you judge the county's response to their demands so far? What would you consider to be of highest county priority in this area and how would you fund its delivery?
The county's response has been lack luster and inept. There has been a failure to effectively communicate with the people who can help us the most, our state and federal legislators. These are the individuals who can bring back dollars from our federal highway bill and state capital bill. Just as I would increase communication between the county and the city on behalf of my district and, as in question 4, I will communicate and work with my state and federal legislators to bring back transportation dollars to the district. Another question to be asked in regards to transportation is why Kane County isn't contributing to the funding of Ride-In-Kane? After the new mass transit bill was passed, a special meeting was held at the Riverside Club in Geneva to discuss the distribution of the extra sales tax revenue. At this meeting, the chairman made note that the county board would contribute a portion of the extra revenue to Ride-in-Kane. At a recent RTA public hearing, I was informed by a Ride-in-Kane administrator that the county does not contribute to its funding as previously proposed by the chairman. Why? If other municipalities and service organizations are contributing, the county should as well.
7. Not including those issues already identified above, is there another issue you believe will affect the county or your district over the next four years? If so, define it and explain how you would like to see it addressed.
Fiscal responsibility. The county has seen a steady increase in fees paid to outside consultants and lobbyists during Karen McConnaughay's tenure as board chairman. Why? Don't we have a legislative committee, comprised of county board members, who regularly communicate with state and federal lawmakers on the needs of the county? Don't we have staff that can answer the same questions posed to these outside consultants? When elected, I will closely review previous years' budgets and conduct a comprehensive analysis to determine where costs have increased, why they have increased, and determine what cuts, if any, are needed. I will also propose that we reduce, if not eliminate contracts with outside consultants and lobbyists.
8. Please list the names of all relatives employed by or involved in contracts with Kane County, their relationship to you and their position or area of business.
I am unaware of any relatives being employed by or involved in contracts with Kane County.
Early Voting Information...
Hello Everyone, As we all know, the upcoming elections will be historic and it is important that everyone who is registered to vote does so,. I have a small favor to ask of all of you who know a registered voter. Please make sure you remind your friends, neighbors to exercise their right and goes out to vote. Also, remind them to vote the entire ballot and not just for the presidential election. As a fellow candidate, John Noverini, democratic candidate for 2nd subcircuit judge, always says remember to vote from the White House down to the Court House. All of these positions are important and we need to make change happen at all levels of government not just the presidency. Are you registered? If you haven't registered or know someone who hasn't registered the deadline to register for the November 4 election is October 7. If you know someone who needs to get registered please let me know, I have several volunteers who can register people to vote. Just send me an email with their contact information and I will have one of my volunteers register them. Early Voting Dates, Times and Locations Avoid the long lines on election day by voting early. Below are a list of some of the early polling locations for Elgin Township. There are several other early voting locations and they are listed at the county clerk's website, http://www.kanecountyelections.org/. You may vote at any of following locations during in-person Early Voting from Oct. 14 - Oct. 30. Tues., Oct. 14 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. ECC 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Wed., Oct. 15 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. ECC 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Gail Borden Library Noon - 8 p.m. Thurs. Oct. 16 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Library Noon - 8 p.m. Fri. Oct. 17 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Library 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat. Oct. 18 Gail Borden Library 9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Mon. Oct. 20 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues. Oct. 21 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Library Noon - 8 p.m. Wed. Oct. 22 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Library Noon - 8 p.m. Thurs. Oct. 23 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Library Noon - 8 p.m. Fri. Oct. 24 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Willow lakes Club House 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. Oct. 25 Willow Lakes Club House 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon. Oct. 27 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Public Library Noon - 8 p.m. Tues. Oct. 28 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Public Library Noon - 8 p.m. Wed. Oct. 29 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Public Library Noon - 8 p.m. Thurs. Oct. 30 Elgin City Hall 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Elgin Township 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gail Borden Public Library Noon - 8 p.m. Again thank you all for your continued support! If you have any questions or need to or know of someone who needs to get registered to vote please contact me and I will help get them registered. Thank You!! Cristina
A Conversation With Cristina....
Wegman drops out of county board race
Citing increased family responsibilities, longtime Elgin resident Larry Wegman said Tuesday he is withdrawing as the Republican candidate for the Kane County Board District 20 seat. "It's a difficult decision to make," said Wegman, 66. "When you start something, you'd like to finish it."
Wegman said he needs to spend more time caring for his 92-year-old mother and babysit his 2-year-old granddaughter during the week. Wegman was set to square off against Democratic nominee Christina Castro and Green Party candidate Julie Schmitt in the Nov. 4 election. This past spring, Castro knocked off Jesus de la Isla, who was appointed in November 2006 to serve the remainder of the District 20 term, which ends next spring. Last fall, Wegman's GOP challenger, Richard Bennett, was thrown off the spring ballot for incorrectly numbering his petitions. Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham said the party has until Sept. 3 to name another person for the November contest. Kane County Republican Central Committee Chairman Mike Kenyon said he and two District 20 precinct committeemen would meet in the next week to talk about replacements. Kenyon said if the committeemen agreed, he'd be open to asking Bennett to take the ballot slot. Bennett, though, said he would have to think it over because he enjoys his free time and is considering buying a farm in Iowa. "I was very hesitant about getting back into (local politics)," said Bennett, who also unsuccessfully ran for Elgin City Council in spring 2007. Wegman said he turned in his notice to party leaders now, well before the campaign push leading up to November began. He didn't want to speculate on whether Bennett or someone else should get the nod. "There's plenty of time and campaigning really hasn't started yet," he said. Wegman, who says he's a "90 percent" retired glass and glazing contractor, will continue to serve as a Gail Borden Library board trustee, and member of the Downtown Neighborhood Association and Northeast Neighbors Association.
Daily Herald Article
2 Kane County Board veterans upstaged by upstarts
Parkway support cited in 1 defeat
By William Presecky
Tribune reporter
February 7, 2008
Incumbency may have paved the way for the success of most Kane County officials seeking renomination, but experience didn't count for two County Board members defeated by political novices in Tuesday's primary.
Jan Carlson, 71, a veteran Republican from Elburn, lost to newcomer Drew Frasz, a contractor from unincorporated LaFox. On the Democratic side, board appointee Jesus de la Isla of Elgin was ousted by Cristina Castro, 30, a first-time candidate and community organizer also from Elgin.
"A lot of voters didn't even know who their current representative was," Castro said Wednesday.
By contrast, Carlson is one of the Kane GOP's best-known and most seasoned politicians. His veteran status on the County Board and Forest Preserve Commission placed him at the head of some of the entities' most influential committees.
Tuesday's results marked only the second time in a more than 40-year political career that Carlson has lost an election.
"It stings, I admit, but life goes on," Carlson said.
Frasz was part of a loose confederation of conservative Republicans who challenged board Chairman Karen McConnaughay (R-St. Charles), board member Mark Davoust (R-St. Charles) and Carlson.
Although McConnaughay and Davoust managed to defeat first-time challengers James MacRunnels and Tina Yagla, respectively, by ratios of about 2-1, Frasz surprised the county's Republican Organization by upending Carlson with 51 percent of the vote.
Castro defeated de la Isla by a greater margin, garnering nearly 82 percent of the vote. She ran with strong backing from Elgin Township Democratic precinct committeemen against de la Isla, who was appointed by McConnaughay over their objections.
"We felt he wasn't representing us," said Committeman Hal Cattron, an Elgin Democrat. "We didn't see him."
"A lot of little things" appear to have contributed to Carlson's defeat, said board member Mike Kenyon (R-Elgin), interim chief of the Kane GOP. Key among those was Carlson's support for the proposed Prairie Parkway.
Last April, voters in Kaneville and Big Rock overwhelmingly rejected the proposed $1 billion project that would connect Interstate Highways 90, 88 and 80.
"That was a clear mandate, and [Carlson] chose to ignore it," Frasz said.
Carlson conceded that he supported initiatives such as the Prairie Parkway whether they were popular or not, "knowing that the results might not be good in the next election" for him.
In Campton Hills' closely watched first election, Village President Patsy Smith handily defeated write-in candidate Robert Young, who favors dissolving the newly incorporated municipality.
Smith garnered 64 percent of the vote.
"It appears to me that a majority are in favor of continuing the village and supporting candidates who will do the best job they can to represent the people," said Smith, who helped spearhead incorporation.
Village clerk candidate Carolyn Higgins, who had opposed a pro-incorporation clerk candidate, was elected with 51 percent of the vote.
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bpresecky@tribune.com
Copyright © 2008, Chicago Tribune
Read the Article:
www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-kaneelex_feb07,1,4810683.story
Castro surges for Elgin seat on Kane board
February 6, 2008
BY STEVEN ROSS JOHNSON Staff Writer
ELGIN -- In a decisive win, challenger Cristina Castro Tuesday won her bid to become the Democratic Party's nominee for the 20th District seat on the Kane County Board over incumbent Jesus de la Isla.
With all nine of the district's precincts counted, Castro had 729 votes compared to the first term incumbent's 162.
Castro, who had remained guardedly optimistic earlier in the night even as the results were posted, said she hoped to carry on the same message of increased representation for Elgin on the county board when she campaigns for the general election in November.
"I stuck to the fundamentals and I worked really hard, and it looks like it's paying off," said Castro, who works in the Elgin Community College marketing department. "I plan on taking the issues to the voters in the general election and bring about change on the county board, hopefully."
Castro now will face GOP candidate Larry Wegman, a trustee on the Gail Borden Public Library Board, as well as Gifford Park Association member and Green Party candidate Julie Schmitt, who both ran unopposed.
Read the Article:
Castro ready to join board
Cristina Castro is the Democrat of choice to compete for the Kane County Board District 20 seat, Tuesday night trouncing the man appointed to the seat nearly two years ago.
Castro received 729 votes, or 65 percent, to incumbent Jesus de la Isla's 162 votes, or 14 percent, with all precincts reporting, according to unofficial results.
It was her broad-based campaign, from mailings to and door knocking, that put her over the edge, she said.
"I thought it was a pretty winning combination and it looks like it resonated with voters, based on what the polls show," said Castro, 29, of Elgin. "It's nice and it was very convincing but for me, it just raises the bar."
De la Isla, 28, of Elgin, has held the seat since late 2006, when he was appointed to fill a vacancy. He did not return phone calls Tuesday night.
Castro has said that if elected, she would push for the inclusion of all financial information about companies bidding on county projects, not just the top three finalists, so board members can evaluate it for potential conflicts.
She also was opposed to the county spending so much on outside consultants -- it reserved $316,000 for fiscal year 2007.
De la Isla, had opposite views on both issues.
Castro will face Republican Larry Wegman and Green Party candidate Julie Schmitt for a 4-year term in the November election.
District 20 covers parts of Elgin's east side, bordered by the Fox River, I-90, the county line two blocks east of Liberty Street and Highland Avenue and Laurel streets. Read the Article:
Meet Cristina...
Dist. 20 Democrats focus on transportation, growth
Two candidates are vying for the Democrat nomination for the Kane County Board District 20 seat in Tuesday's primary -- marketing and communications administrative assistant Cristina Castro, 29, of Elgin, and incumbent and small business owner Jesus L. de la Isla, 28, of Elgin. He was appointed to the Kane County Board in November 2006.
Candidates were asked to complete a Q&A; some excerpts from their answers are given below. To read each Q&A in full, visit www.dailyherald.com.
Q. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what? What will be your main priority?
Cristina Castro. To make a difference and to provide effective leadership that my district has been lacking. My constituents and Elgin need an active, engaged and effective leader who will stand up and fight for important issues. I am eager to represent my constituents and Elgin on the Kane County Board. Transportation is my top priority. Increasing the mobility of residents in and out of my district is both needed and possible.
Jesus L. de la Isla. As the son of immigrant parents, I have a unique perspective of life in our diverse county. I bring to the board the experience of my life not just as a Latino but an American and a parent. My community, my family and my children are what drive me to be involved in politics. There are many priorities I have in office and I would say following and enforcing the 2030 plan be at the top of that list along with continuing a sustainable water supply plan and encouraging municipalities to control their growth.
Q. For incumbents and non-incumbents. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.
Castro. Currently in my district, there is a lack of communication between the Kane County Board and the citizens and city of Elgin. This lack of communication leaves the city and my constituents in the dark on how county policies affect them. I will attend regular community, neighborhood, and city council meetings in my district to meet this objective. When elected, I would act as a conduit between the county, my constituents and the city of Elgin.
De la Isla. Although an incumbent, I would like to mention that I was recently appointed. I have been chosen by our public service committee to represent the county board on the recent Spanish advisory committee.
Q. Revenues are down and belt-tightening has been ordered for next year's budget. In what ways would you attempt to control expenditures? What services would you reduce first and which would you consider necessities?
Castro. When elected, I will closely review previous years' budgets and conduct a comprehensive analysis to determine where costs have increased, why they have increased, and determine what cuts, if any, are needed. For example, during Karen McConnaughay's tenure as board chairman, the county has seen a steady increase in fees paid to outside consultants. Why? Don't we have staff that can answer these questions? If not, why not? We need accountability in government.
De la Isla. Without a doubt, running a tight ship is of the utmost importance. I would like to note that the county board has limited power in controlling elected officials' expenditures, but controlling overtime in county departments is a start. Also, encouraging municipalities to kick in their fair share in animal control.
Q. Transportation issues continue to be a major concern to residents. How would you judge the county's response to their demands so far? What would you consider to be of highest county priority in this area and how would you fund its delivery?
Castro. The county's response has been lackluster and inept. There has been a failure to effectively communicate with the people who can help us the most, our state and federal legislators. These are the individuals who can bring back dollars from our federal highway bill and state capital bill. Just as I would increase communication between the county and the city on behalf of my district, I will also be communicating with my state and federal legislators to help bring back greater transportation dollars to the district.
De la Isla. Transportation will always be an issue of major concern in Kane County, particularly important to the north end is the Longmeadow Parkway bridge. Continuing cooperation with the state and federal government is vital. Also working with lawmakers to ensure Kane County gets the appropriate tax dollars to our tax base. A toll bridge is an option, so that the users of the bridge pay for the bridge and the county residents don't end up footing the bill.
Q. With one longtime issue, the county jail, all but resolved, there remains the enduring issue of county office consolidation. Should it be a priority and how would you accomplish it financially? Explain. If not, what issue do you consider of more immediate concern and why.
Castro. As I stated in answer number three, when elected I will closely review the previous year's budget to see what new efficiencies and synergies can be obtained. However, I will say as a business professional I have had the opportunity to talk with local attorneys and Realtors. My belief is that the county's recorder's office, because of modernization, is an office we might consider merging with another county office.
De la Isla. I agree that the county office consolidation is an enduring issue. Without a doubt it makes sense that the sheriff's office, circuit court office and the coroner's office come together at the judicial center. Financially, the sale of the jail would help.
Q. The county has taken a leadership role in studying the issue of long-term water supply maintenance and protection. What should the county's emphasis be in this area over the next few years? Explain.
Castro. To ensure appropriate impact fees for new development and to provide relief for seniors and people with disabilities who are on fixed and limited incomes to lessen the impact of increased water usage.
De la Isla. Water supply is a concern. An emphasis needs to be placed on working with municipalities on encouraging growth control. Enforcement of the 2030 plan is essential.
Q. Not including those issues already identified above, is there another issue you believe will impact the county or your district over the next four years? If so, define it and explain how you would like to see it addressed.
Castro. A central communication center, perhaps a 311 line. That will quickly and efficiently direct residents of my district and county do needed services and agencies.
De la Isla. Taxes are always a concern at the county. Growth in Elgin. A growing population naturally increases crime. An addition of the jail perhaps can be an issue in the future. Again, controlling growth and enforcing the 2030 plan is essential. Read the Article: http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=125149&src=32
Five More Endorsements....
January 25, 2008 To our neighbors in Northeast Elgin:
The undersigned Democratic committeemen (past, current and candidates) of Kane County's 20th District announce our full support and endorsement of Cristina Castro to represent us as a member of the Kane County Board.
The people of the 20th District elected Marlena Fox in 2004 to represent them. When she resigned, the Elgin Township Democrats nominated a number of acceptable replacements. The Republican chairman of the board appointed someone who was not on that list.
We feel the people of Kane County's 20th District are no longer represented on the board. The appointee has become unavailable and is inconsistent in attending County Board and County Board committee meetings. To date he has not attended any public candidate forums to compare his ideas with those of Ms. Castro.
Ms. Castro is a proven leader in the Elgin community, serving as a Commissioner on the City of Elgin Zoning and Subdivision Hearing Board and as President of the Elgin Hispanic Network, while working in the marketing and communications department at Elgin Community College and studying for her Master’s of Business Administration from Northern Illinois University. Ms. Castro is a lifelong resident of Elgin with the ability and desire to hold Kane County government accountable, improve transportation, make health care more accessible and plan for affordable housing.
We urge all registered voters of Kane County's 20th District to take a Democratic ballot in the February 5 primary and vote for Cristina Castro.
Michael Noland
Precinct 1
828 Logan
847-571-3935
John Sheppard
Precinct 1
348 Cooper
847-742-5697
Carol Rauschenberger
Precinct 2
1136 Bellevue
847-873-9995
Jennifer Whalen
Precinct 3
562 Oakhill Road
(847)741-7118
Harold Cattron
Precinct 4
164 S. Porter
847-741-2360
Frank Imhoff
Precinct 5
739 Prospect
847-322-2286
Ben Burch
Precinct 6
668 Forest
847-888-3899
Laurel Bault
Precinct 9
654 Bluff City
847-666-7664 Trinidad Rodriguez
Precinct 11 513 Fremont St.
(847)888-9379
Jean Cattron
Precinct 13
164 S. Porter
847-741-2360
January 24, 2008 I encourage everyone who has the opportunity to request a Democratic ballot and vote for Cristina Castro. Elgin needs an effective leader who will represent it on the Kane County Board in the 20th District.
Cristina is committed to working with city leaders and state officials. When that happens, lines of communication remain open, roads in Elgin get some needed attention, Pace buses keep running, health care is accessible and housing is affordable.
Cristina is a lifelong resident of Elgin who is a proven leader, well-informed on the issues in Kane County. She will bring accountability to county government.
I proudly endorse Cristina, and I invite you to learn more about her at CastroForKane.org on the Web.
Frank Imhoff
Elgin Precinct 5
January 19, 2008
I have been the elected Democratic Precinct Committeeman for Elgin Precinct 13 for the past 4 years, and I am the secretary for the Elgin Township Democrats. I took advantage of the opportunity to vote early and voted for Cristina Castro for the Kane County Board in District 20 where I live. I think she is an exceptional young woman who has demonstrated the valuable talent of combining a career with both continuing her education and public service in our community. I expect she will master the task of being a County Board member in a minimum of time.
I've found her open, honest and enthusiastic in her responses. It will be wonderful to once again feel I am being represented on the Kane County Board. The first step in making this happen, whether you vote in the primary early or on February 5 is taking a Democratic ballot and selecting Cristina Castro.
Jean Cattron Elgin Read The Endorsement: January 19, 2008 I endorse Cristina Castro to be our member of the Kane County Board from District 20 in the Democratic Primary Feb. 5th. I am well acquainted with her and her opponent. She is clearly the better choice for this post. We need a board member who will ask questions of the leaders and weigh all the options, not another rubber stamp. Hal Cattron
Elgin January 19, 2008 Kane County Board Needs Honest Leadership
I do not live in the Kane County Board District 20, but if I did I would be voting for Cristina Castro in the Democratic primary. More than ever before, we need enthusiastic leadership, new ideas and most important, we need honest elected officials that can think on their own, not just controlled by the puppet strings of other people. Cristina's opponent was appointed to fill a seat vacated on the board, and I am certain that there was dishonesty involved in that appointment. We are all fortunate that we have a trustworthy and authentic young woman that was willing to step up and run to represent the people that do live in the 20th District, the northeast side of Elgin. On February 5th, when you choose a Democratic ballot in the primary election, choose Cristina Castro for Kane County Board.
Laurel Bault
Elgin
The Elgin Trades Council Officially Endorses Cristina Castro
January 17, 2008 Dear Cristina, The Elgin Trades Council has officially endorsed you for the 20th district for Kane County Board. The Elgin Trades Council has several thousand members and this endorsement has been approved unanimously.
Sincerely,
Toby Koth
President
Senator Noland Endorses Castro for County Board Seat
January 15, 2008
"For the 20th District County Board seat I strongly recommend Cristina Castro. I live in her district and have personally knocked on nearly every door here. As with Mr. Laesch, her qualities are most reflective of the people she will represent. Well versed on the issues, she has made her own way through hard work and again, persistence. Working fulltime as a marketing associate for Elgin Community College while pursuing a master’s degree in business at Northern Illinois University, she has also been active in a number of community organizations and has coordinated a number of important events so many of us have attended. She has earned the respect of her peers and will serve us well at the county. "
Senator Michael Noland
Elgin, Illinois Read the article: A copy of our report is (or will be) available for purchase from the State Board of Elections, 1020 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL 62704. Political contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes.
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