2017 Election Questionnaire: Carol Penning, Bolingbrook Village Clerk

Name: Carol S. Penning

Age: 62

Town of residence: Village of Bolingbrook

Position sought: Bolingbrook Village Clerk

Family:

I am single and was not blessed with having any children of my own, but I have many family members that live in Bolingbrook and support my re-election. My mother, Mary Lou Haske is 88 years old. I have two sisters Michele and Julie & her husband Keith. A niece and nephew – Katie and Jim and their family. Many cousins that are a part of the Carrara Family. All living here in this great community. Family is super important to me as well as my faith and friends

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?: None

Education: Graduate of Alvernia Catholic High School - A graduate, of a three-year Institute Training Program of the Municipal Clerks of Illinois and a Leadership Enhancement and Development program; both sponsored by the University of Illinois. Carol acquired certifications as a Registered and Certified Municipal Clerk.

Occupation: Bolingbrook Village Clerk. I am serving my seventh consecutive term. I was elected Village Clerk with Mayor Roger Claar in 1989, 1993, 1997, 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. In 2014, I celebrated my 25th Anniversary as Bolingbrook’s elected Village Clerk.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Former Executive Secretary to the Bolingbrook Mayor & Manager 1980-1985
Acting Village Clerk 1980-1981
Bolingbrook Deputy Clerk 1980-1985

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I believe all issues facing the Village Board are equally important - therefore I will continue to do what ever I can do to help support Mayor Claar and the Village Trustees.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Experience, Knowledge and Service for others. I have obtained contacts and resources through the years which will guide and assist residents in a more timely manner.

I also have a passion for “Service for Others” which is critical as a public servant. My every waking moment is devoted to the residents of the Village of Bolingbrook.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

Our Mission - Through our constant commitment and dedicated service to the community, it is the Bolingbrook First Party's mission to provide efficient, effective, inclusive, and transparent local government that will continue to make Bolingbrook "A Place to Grow" for ALL of its residents

If you gain this position, what accomplishment would define your term in office as a success?

That the residents of Bolingbrook continue to believe in me, my work and know that I will assist them to the best of my ability. Helpful and responsive defines my definition of success.

Please share with voters a story about wisdom gained from a mistake you made in your life or career.

I worked a short period for a State Representative. He was an excellent legislator, but I quickly found out that I enjoyed Local Government better than State Government. I immediately made every effort to go back to my roots at the Village of Bolingbrook and was elected Bolingbrook Village Clerk in 1989. Village Government is the government that is closest to the people, and that is where I belong.

Why should voters trust you?

It is important to me as a person to be a trustworthy individual – in doing so I worked hard to build strength of character which allows me to great service to others.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy:

I am inspired by the advice of Abraham Lincoln, who said “Whatever you are, be a good one.”

What questions should be asked of current government employees accountable to your board?

The same question which is asked and expected of each us that are serving as a member of the Village Board which is as follows: Are you providing the very best service in a timely manner to the residents of Bolingbrook?

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office (or board)?

The Village of Bolingbrook Board has a proud tradition of being fiscally conservative and Mayor Claar and the Board of Trustee continues to work hard to ensure Village government continue to be well managed with the lowest possible tax burden to the residents. In 1987 the Village portion of the tax bill was at 22% - since Mayor Claar has been in office that has been reduced to 10% as of 2017.

Mayor Claar’s administration strives for good fiscal management by simultaneously building reserves and eliminating waste and inefficiencies.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

• Registered and Certified Municipal Clerk
• Past President, Municipal Clerks of Illinois
• Past President, Municipal Clerks of DuPage County
• Founding Member and Past President, Municipal Clerks of Will
County

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

“When it stops being fun – Move on!” I have been blessed with working with three Mayors and many Village Trustees. It has been a great honor and joy serving the residents of Bolingbrook. If that would ever change, I would know it was time to move on to the next great life adventure.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have worked at the Bolingbrook Village Hall for almost 40 years. Starting out as an administrative assistant (striving to master every task I was assigned) and was then promoted to Executive Secretary to the Mayor and the Village Manager. In 1989, I was asked by friends and neighbors to run for public office and was elected Village Clerk. I am honored to be the longest serving Village Clerk in Bolingbrook's history and a cheerful presence at Village Hall. Each day at Village Hall it is my goal to be an effective advocate ready to direct residents to the help they need.

More via Penning's campaign website

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