Tristan Dacre, Elmhurst Ward 2 Candidate

ELMHURST, IL — Tristan Dacre is one of two candidates for the Ward 2 seat on the Elmhurst City Council. Here are his responses to the Patch questionnaire:

Tristan E. Dacre

Age (as of Election Day)

47

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design from Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana

Occupation

Multi-state Registered Architect; Principal of my own firm, Dacre & Youngquist, LLC (25 years post-graduate experience)

Campaign website

www.dacreforelmhurst.com

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

None

The single most pressing issue facing our city is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

maintaining the community centered lifestyle so valued as part of our Elmhurst history; while, at the same time, promoting new growth and future opportunities.
* With the interests of the voters at the forefront, I am ready to embrace opportunities that position Elmhurst for economic growth and expansion. I want to promote community traditions, events, amenities, and explore other new ideas that will inspire a new generation of memories.

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?

Our nation was founded under the principle that all are equal. Americans value the idea of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We have much more work to do on this front. The peaceful demonstrations in Elmhurst are just another testament to our community. Our challenge as citizens, or more importantly just as human beings, is for each of us to examine our own failings and then, together, work toward the good words of our Founding Fathers, building upon what is given to us already to achieve a liberty envisioned for all of us.

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

We should constantly be challenging ourselves as we work toward improving social and racial equity. There is always more we can do individually and collectively.

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?

I see a nation and local communities in pain and divided with no easy way out. I see shoppers wearing masks, I see neighbors caring while maintaining a social distance for each other, and I see parents making hard decisions on a day-to-day basis. I am proud of Elmhurst and of Illinois. We need to follow the guidance of our health professionals as we continue to navigate our way through. Accepting reminders of the actions we can do personally to protect the vulnerable around us. There is power in being united to resolve what sometimes feels like an insurmountable task to return to the normalcy before 2020.

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?

Communication is key. We must work closely with the local and state health departments. Locally, city administrators need to be the advocates for state and federal aid. It will take the organization and teamwork of state and private sectors. We need “all hands on deck” to ensure vaccine security and broad distribution.

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

My solid background in business and architecture provide a unique and much needed perspective for the ongoing revitalization of Elmhurst. As a longtime resident of the 2nd ward, I am enthusiastically optimistic and ready to serve my fellow constituents. We represent a mixed class of workers, families, and retirees. At the core, together, we champion our dreams, and together, we celebrate our achievements.

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

By Election Day, my challenger will have only served office for four months. Although considered an incumbent, this is not near enough time to recognize the degree of duty or accomplishments of my challenger.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Safety and health should always be priority one. Homeowners must have confidence that their public servants never lose sight of this. Although we cannot predict the future, we need the ability to improve, pivot, or change. Elected officials and city departments should always be transparent, accessible, and approachable. This establishes public confidence in leadership and ensures that the people have a voice and the means to overcome challenging issues.

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

As an architect and small business owner, I have practiced architecture for over 25 years, successfully serving my clients and prior employers. I have been fortunate to practice both locally and nationwide, meeting and collaborating with many jurisdictions, craftsmen, and operators in the restaurant industry. I have delivered qualified designs and met defined project timelines. Consequently, my clientele continue to inquire for my services where they entrust me for future endeavors and goals.

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

I will be a tireless advocate, not only for the 2nd ward, but for Elmhurst. I would like to see the revitalization of the downtown with 1st floor vacancies occupied. Considering the extraordinarily difficult year we have endured, there will be challenging issues that arise and difficult choices to make. I will face these tasks with the constituents’ viewpoints and best interests in mind.

Why should voters trust you?

I am true to my word both professionally and privately. I have a duty to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and competence as an architect and member of the American Institute of Architects. But more importantly, personally, I have a vow to my wife of over 20 years and with it an unconditional love to my family and God.

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

The taxpayer must have elected officials they trust as fiscally responsible. Transparent spending and above board agreements that benefit the community of Elmhurst are essential components of government spending. Elmhurst is known for long-term residents and stability. From our senior citizens, to our family cohorts of school age children, to our younger working-age population, our government needs to support the various periods of development and adjust accordingly. Communities are strongest when everyone is working together. The City needs to evaluate fiscal policy “wishes” versus “wants” and how it impacts our census.

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

I sure hope not. As a resident and home owner for over 20 years, my family and I have more than planted our roots. Onward, we continue to enjoy and look forward to the fruits of our hard labor.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Resiliency is my word for 2020. There is a quote, “What defines us is how well we rise after falling”. It's finally 2021 and time to rise well, Elmhurst!

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

I'm happiest when I'm engaging and strategizing with a team to develop solutions. I think my superpower is establishing more meaningful connections, even with those who may have a hard time seeing another viewpoint. Whether it is someone within my own office, an outside consultant, or client, I have a track record of building and strong and trusting relationships. These sustained relationships result in positive outcomes.