Thomas Belczak, Darien Ward 7 Candidate

DARIEN, IL — Thomas Belczak is one of two candidates running for Ward 7 Darien alderman in the April 6 election. Here are his responses to the Patch questionnaire:

Thomas J. Belczak

Age (as of Election Day)

60

Town/City of Residence

Darien, Illinois

Office Sought

Village board or city council

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

Non-partisan race

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Yes, my adult daughter is a budget analyst for the city of Chicago.

Education

B.A. from University of Illinois (Urbana); Juris Doctorate from IIT Chicago- Kent College of Law

Occupation

Attorney for the last 34 years

Campaign website

None at this time

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Current Alderman of Ward 7 for the City of Darien

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

The COVID 19 crisis negatively impacted the economy last year. I am proud of how the city was able to maintain a balanced budget without disrupting essential city services or raising taxes during the 2020 fiscal year. Staying on budget during a pandemic will be the single biggest challenge for the City of Darien ( and all municipalities ) going forward. This will continue to be a pressing issue for this and future councils. I will continue to keep a close eye on city expenditures and make sure the services my constituents have come to expect from the city are maintained.

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

I support equality for all regardless of race, creed or sex. I further support the right to peacefully protest, however I do not believe violence solves anything.

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

Yes, I believe we have, but we can always do more. I would like to see Darien create an IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Awareness) Commission.

What are your thoughts on the national and local coronavirus response? Do you favor measures such as limiting operation of non-essential businesses and restricting indoor/outdoor dining? And do you favor a local mask mandate?

The responses to the coronavirus pandemic are dictated at the Federal and State levels, leaving local municipalities with little or no ability to create policy. That said, at a local level the best Darien can do is educate our residents about the protocol and procedures for combating the pandemic. To date, Darien has accomplished this by providing weekly updates on its web page and through Direct Connect as to the latest information and resources available. I support our Mayor and his administration in this endeavor.

What are your thoughts on the state and local coronavirus vaccine distribution, and how do you think local governments should work together to handle vaccine rollout?

The City of Darien continues to work with the DuPage Mayors and Mangers Conference and the DuPage Public Health Department to insure Darien residents will be given the opportunity to receive the coronavirus vaccine. I believe this is the best approach, and should continue.

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

I don't know my opponent personally, so I really cannot say. However, I believe my experience as an attorney and as an Alderman gives me an advantage over most candidates. My legal background has taught me to listen to both sides of an issue and work to negotiate a compromise. These skills have been helpful in working through numerous city council issues over the last 8 years.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Not applicable

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

The City of Darien's police department and municipal services are second to none. The trick is how to provide these outstanding services without increasing the resident's tax burden. The current counsel has successfully been able to strike this balance. I am focused on maintaining the excellence of these services without negatively impacting our residents' pocketbooks.

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

I have successfully handled the job of Alderman since 2013.

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

(No answer)

Why should voters trust you?

I have been the alderman for 8 years. The decisions I make as alderman are based on what I believe are best for the residents of ward 7 and the city of Darien. At no point has my trustworthiness been called into question. I first ran for this position because I thought I could make a positive difference and I believe I've done so.

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

As I stated previously, the City of Darien must continue to maintain exemplary services with our increasing the tax burden of its residents.

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:

Be yourself

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

I grew up on the southwest side of Chicago (Garfield Ridge). I meet my wife (Nicki) in college and we have been married for 33 years. We moved from Berwyn with our three daughters to Darien in 2000. We love living in Hinsbrook for its neighborhood feel and we have made made many friends here. I have been actively involved in community since we moved here. I am an active member of the Darien Lions Club and served on its board of directors. I belong to the Darien Swim & Recreation Club and served on its board for 6 years, including 4 years as president. For the last 8 years I have been honored to serve as the Alderman of Ward 7 on the Darien City Council.