2017 Election Questionnaire: Maria Zarate, Bolingbrook Trustee

Name: Maria A. Zarate

Age: 55

Town of residence: Village of Bolingbrook

Position sought: Village Trustee

Family:

Husband Terrence Zarate Sr.

Three sons: Anthony, Terrence Jr. and Stephen.

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

Education: High school diploma – St. Procopius

Occupation: Village Trustee – four years, prior Chief of Staff for State of Illinois Representative Cynthia Soto of the 4th District.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Village Trustee

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

The single most pressing issue facing our (Board) is: All issues facing the Village are important and need to be addressed. The remaining build out of Bolingbrook’s business corridor – Remington Blvd. is an important priority to me as this will continue to add additional jobs for the residents in the community

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

My State and Village government experience of over the past 10 years. I understand how government works.

I also approach the issues from a what’s best for the Bolingbrook perspective. Adding jobs, keeping our taxes within reason, and keeping Bolingbrook safe for all residents are my goals. Our efforts display these goals as you see the growth of industry in Bolingbrook along Remington Blvd., the establishment of the Promenade Mall which has helped our tax base, and our support of the Fire and Police departments.

I am also bi-lingual – speaking fluent Spanish and look forward to continue to assist the Latino community here in Bolingbrook as well as all our residents

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

We have demonstrated success in managing the Village’s business. When I moved to Bolingbrook 23 years ago, the Village did not have the Remington Blvd. industrial corridor along with the jobs that are there now. Over the years, the Mayor and the Board have managed the development of the Promenade Mall, Bolingbrook Golf Club, and the Amita Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital.

Additionally, Mayor Claar and the Village Board have overseen the development of several new residential communities which provided homes for new Bolingbrook residents

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

Over the next four years, I will work toward continued growth of new businesses, jobs and affordable housing for new residents.

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

When I was a young woman, I was in a hurry to help others and myself obtain a job and a home which lead me to some disappointment because of the length of time it took to gain a good job and purchase a home. Now, looking back, I see that local government can assist residents as it makes jobs and community outreach programs its priority.

Why should voters trust you?

Based on my previous four-year term the voters should know my history and performance. I am dedicated to them and have their best interest in mind whenever I am addressing the village’s business.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy:

"Never give up! No matter what goes wrong: never, never give up. Just keep working and praying and slowly things will get better. Never give up!"

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

I believe government employees should be able to explain and add value to the village through their job performance.

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

It is a requirement that the Village has a balanced budget. It is important to spend tax dollars efficiently and ensure that the residents’ basic needs are met and Village infrastructure is well maintained.

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

I been a trustee for four years, and I served as Chief of Staff for State Representative Cynthia Soto. This position included working with constituents to address their concerns and solving problems that they may have had regarding state issues. I helped to ensure that their government was attentive to their needs and cared about their problems. I continue to follow that objective as a Village Trustee.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” What this means to me is no matter how hard the situation or the issue that I am facing, I just have to keep working on the issue, identify my options, and come up with the best solution for the situation at that time

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

I am passionate about my job and the work we do on the Board. I really care about the welfare of the residents of Bolingbrook. Based on my experience working for the State Representative, I have compassion and empathy for my fellow Village residents. I understand sometimes people need the help of our Village to address the issues they face. I will always do what is in the best interest of the residents of Bolingbrook.

More via Zarate's campaign website

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