Jose Quintero, Bolingbrook Village Trustee Candidate

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Jose Quintero is a candidate for Village of Bolingbrook Trustee. There are five candidates running for three open positions in this race.

The consolidated election is April 4.

You can find Quintero's answers to the Patch candidate questionnaire below:

Your Name:

Jose Quintero

Age (as of Election Day):

42

Town/City of Residence:

Bolingbrook

Office sought:

Village Board

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

Non-partisan

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education:

Florida Atlantic University, Business

Occupation:

VP of Operations and Business Development in the Hospitality industry, 20 years

Campaign Website or Facebook:

https://firstparty4bolingbrook...

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Commissioner, Zoning Board of Appeals for Bolingbrook

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

As we near build out of our community, we have taken steps to maintain the positive progress that has been accomplished. There remain opportunities to encourage new businesses and community activities that will make our community even better. In that spirit, I will work tirelessly with various community organizations to grow and to get residents involved in these organizations to make us even stronger.

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

I bring a unique experience that is certainly different from others seeking the same office. A key aspect of local government is service to others. My extensive experience in the hospitality industry has provided the necessary tools for the role of Village Trustee. I have experience with a variety of team members and personalities to ensure customer expectations are exceeded, dealing with unique challenges that come up periodically and making sure issues are resolved, and working with businesses to design and deliver services and events in a successful partnership. This experience, along with my involvement as a Bolingbrook Chamber Board member enables me to understand the challenges of local businesses and work with them in a variety of ways. I am also a member of several local community organizations and work with many other organizations to help them succeed in their mission of service to others.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)? Or what changes would you like to see?

N/A

Describe the other issues or ideas that define your campaign platform:

All of my fellow candidates have a proven and long record of community involvement. We understand that this activity of servant leadership is key to maintaining and making our community even better. We have been involved, whether as public officials or residents, for many years in a variety of organizations and will continue to do so. This approach and commitment is a way of life, not just something to exhibit at election time and. Certainly, long before seeking public office. As such, our platform epitomizes our approach to life with an ongoing evolution of knowledge and ideas as we look for ways to keep our community as an example for others.

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

I would reiterate my experience in the Hospitality industry as a key aspect of serving the public, as well as my strong community involvement for many years.

Why should voters trust you?

I have been very open about my commitment to serving our community and willingness to listen and learn ways to be a better public servant. I believe my actions and approach should encourage trust in me to serve our community.

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

My fellow candidates and I are committed to continue making Bolingbrook a welcoming community where residents can and will step up with their own time and talents to improve the lives of all. We have grown into a robust and vibrant community and the only way to maintain the best aspects of our community is to grow participation by all residents. Success will come in the form of seeing more residents getting involved by volunteering at and/or attending and supporting the many events offered in the community.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

I believe, as my fellow candidates do, in being an incredible steward of taxpayer funds, with a strong belief in holding the line on property taxes.

Do you support the Illinois assault weapons ban, and would you support a local assault weapons ban in this community?

This matter is currently held up in litigation and we are looking forward to the outcome of the litigation.

Do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality? If not, what specifically should be done to do so?

As everyone should be aware, Bolingbrook is one of THE most diverse communities in Illinois and, different from many communities, enjoys “door to door” diversity meaning that each neighborhood is populated with residents of many different races, religions, and cultural backgrounds. The Village Board has supported and been involved with a variety of ethnic festivals and events and encourages all to attend and participate in learning about each other so as to support true racial equality. Residents have chosen to make Bolingbrook their home as a result of this approach.

Do you support the SAFE-T Act? Why or why not?

The entire Village Board voted unanimously on a resolution for the Illinois State Legislature to re-evaluate certain provisions of the act. This request was also supported by the State Attorney’s in most of the counties in Illinois. Our party has come out not supporting “certain provisions of” the act, as well.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

We are very proud of and very appreciative of the efforts of our Police department in taking proactive approaches to keeping crime under control, a challenge that certainly exists in many communities in Chicago and the suburbs. We support and have approved funding for such law enforcement as License Plate Readers, Software to download data from cell phones in criminal investigations, expansion of the K-9 Officer program, expansion of Community Outreach team, strong support of our School Resource Officers, expanded training and technological support. All of these actions, and more, is evidenced by successful and timely resolution of crimes in our community.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

I have observed a very strong and successful approach to ensuring that developers coming to Bolingbrook understand they must bring and deliver quality. This approach will continue as we move to the future.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

We have listened to the residents and are working with the ownership of the Commons retail center at Route 53 and Interstate 55 with redevelopment of the center.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Dreams remain dreams until you take action.

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

My family and I chose to move to Bolingbrook and remain very happy with our decision. I am proud to serve Bolingbrook today and look forward to an expanded service role as Village Trustee with my fellow candidates.