Meet Candidate for Algonquin Village Board Laura Brehmer

Name: Laura Brehmer

Town of Residence: Village of Algonquin

Position Sought: Trustee

Party affiliation: Independent/Nonpartisan

Family: Married with two children

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?: No

Education: Master of Business Administration - Roosevelt University/Bachelor of Science - Northern Illinois University

Occupation: Community Relations Manager/Communications/Employee Services Manager 15+ years; Currently substitute teacher

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: This is the first time running for an elected position.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it: An issue that many municipalities face is maintaining a stable revenue stream while managing expenses. I plan on being ruthless on spending and avoid mission creep that adds costs.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it: An issue that many municipalities face is maintaining a stable revenue stream while managing expenses. I plan on being ruthless on spending and avoid mission creep that adds costs.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?: I have a background in community relations and communications which would be an asset as a Village of Algonquin trustee.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?: Village communications with residents and businesses is an area that I would focus on by improving community outreach.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform: Other issues that define my platform include: increase transparency, improve communication and decrease spending.

If you gain this position, what accomplishment would define your term in office as a success?: I would define my term being successful when I increase transparency, improve communication and decrease spending.

Please share with voters a story about wisdom gained from a mistake you made in your life or career: I should have researched more occupations to narrow down academic programs and college selections. It would have saved both time and money. I gained wisdom by the realization that making mistakes and learning from them is part of growing up.

Why should voters trust you?: There is an expression that "actions speak louder than words." I have been a volunteer and advocate in our community for over a decade. My parents emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic; the value of a dollar; and being a person of your word. These values were instilled in my upbringing.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy: "Be the change you wish to see in the World." Gandhi

What questions should be asked of current government employees accountable to your board?: What suggestions do they have to streamline processes, improve services and cut expenses?

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office (or board)?: Families must live within their means and so should government. I'm extremely conservative in spending and incurring debt.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?: As president of a homeowners' association with over 800 members, the board has improved communications, improved services and managed expenses responsibly. My professional background includes working on million dollar programs, meeting deadlines and adhering to budget constraints.

The best advice ever shared with me was: The best advice ever shared with me was to always do my best.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?: I plan to advocate for all Algonquin Residents. Residents are the heart of a community and should be engaged in a meaningful conversation with elected officials. I'm dedicated to enhancing residents' quality of life, while promoting responsible and cost-conscious solutions to taxpayers.

More via Laura Brehmer's campaign website

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