2017 Election Questionnaire: Michael Lawler, Bolingbrook Trustee

Name: Michael T. Lawler

Age: 60

Town of residence: Village of Bolingbrook

Position sought: Village Trustee

Family:

Four sons and one daughter. Five grandsons and four granddaughters.

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

Education: Studies in Communications, American University

Occupation: Information Technology since 1984, Hospitality prior to that since I was 15 years old

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.

Residents’ awareness of events, services and organization activities is the bigger challenge I have seen as we have grown. The decline in local media coverage and the advent of social media that is inconsistently used are the primary reasons for this challenge. We have been discussing several options to address this matter, including the addition of the new Bolingbrook App, an updated web site, and other community outreach initiatives.

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

I would say that the major difference is involvement in the community and a positive plan of serve to the community. To serve effectively, one must be in ongoing contact with the various organizations and individuals who are serving the community so that support can be provided.

Through the years, all of us have had ongoing involvement with a variety of organizations on an official and unofficial basis. Our involvement has been based upon the enjoyment of working with those who wish to make Bolingbrook a better community and assisting them in their efforts. We have proven experience in service to Bolingbrook and a commitment to continuing our involvement with many diverse organizations

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

We have proven experience and a strong record of working diligently to improve Bolingbrook. We have adopted practices that encourage families and businesses to move to Bolingbrook. We constantly seek innovative ways to improve Bolingbrook and foster an inclusive environment that permits and encourages those who care about Bolingbrook.

In addition, we work well with other governmental agencies and believe strongly in collaborating with other agencies to minimize duplicate services allowing all of us to provide services in the most cost efficient method possible. We know our approach makes a difference to those considering Bolingbrook because they share their experiences of other communities who are not as effective in this commitment.

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

In four years, we should see evidence of continued effective growth, a strong community of organizations who support Bolingbrook, and continued programs that make us a family friendly community.

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

When I was a child, I was mad at one of my teachers so I made the effort to make a homework assignment difficult to read. My mother made me do it over and told me that it takes more time and effort to purposely do things wrong than to do them right in the first place. My parents also taught me the importance of looking out for those less fortunate.

Why should voters trust you?

People who know me understand that I place my service to Bolingbrook as a top priority in my life. I have never shirked responsibility in anything I do and I believe that one must face life and its challenges openly and honestly. I take this responsibility seriously and am comfortable discussing and addressing any issue that may arise. Accountability is key to our ability to serve and I consider that trait a key facet of my life.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy:

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader." John Quincy Adams

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

I think they should be asked how they endeavor to serve the residents in the best way possible as part of their duties. We work with a great staff who have exhibited creative and caring approaches to the daily challenges of public service. We don’t always get it right, but the willingness to try has been evident to me over the years.

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

Our fiscal policies have been to deliver the best services for the least amount of cost. This is an ongoing challenge which requires constant innovation and involvement from all employees and our community partners. We have made investments designed to improve the quality of life and attract great businesses and residents. We review programs each year in our budget cycle and challenge our Village department heads to bring us a well-researched list of priorities that can benefit the community.

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

I have been recognized over the years for strong customer service. I think the past experience in the service industry prepared me well for this job. I also learned to multitask and work well in a team environment. It’s not about how much you know or how talented. It’s about knowing where to find the answers and working with people talented in ways you are not.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Never celebrate the high moments or agonize over the low moments too much. Life is smoother in the center lane.

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

I have a strong commitment to my family and this community. This is a position that requires personal sacrifices and someone who puts their own interests aside. I have enjoyed the opportunity to serve the community, work with great people, and learn how a community can grow in an organized and effective manner.

More via Lawler's campaign website

Photo submitted