2013 Election: Joe Kral

Name: Joe Kral

Position Sought: Frankfort Township Assessor

Campaign Contact Information: 

joekral.com
votejoekral@gmail.com
815-277-9563

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

When I was elected three years ago, I realized the property tax assessment appeals system was unfair, labor-intensive, difficult to understand and the forms had to be completed very quickly. Worse yet, the residents had little guidance on how to complete the paperwork required to file an appeal.
So I began the "soft appeals" program. It is an informal way for residents to sit down with me personally, consider their assessment and discuss their concerns.
If reelected, I would like to expand and improve the program by adding more searchable information to the office's website and putting it in a form that is easy to understand.
I also would like to reach out to more residents so they know the office is here and is working for them.

Home Address: 

19403 Kevin Ave.
Mokena, Ill.
60448

Family Members:

I am married to Theodora.

Education: 

I attended South Suburban College, Southern Illinois University and the Appraisal Institute.
I obtained my CIAO certification in 2004 through the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Current Occupation and Employer:

Frankfort Township Assessor

Political Party Affiliation: Republican

Why are you seeking office?

The property taxing system in the state of Illinois has been purposely set up so that it is difficult to understand. I want to do something about that, and education is the key.
Working together, I will help Frankfort Township residents navigate this system. I want them to know how it works. I want them to feel confident that they are being assessed fairly in comparison to their neighbors.
I also want to make sure they know exactly what is causing the out-of-control increases in their property tax bills.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am honest, plain-spoken and here to help.

In your opinion, what are the primary challenges facing the township?

I am concerned about on-going property tax increases.

How will you address those challenges?

I want to educate the voters.
When they go to the polls in the April election, voters should realize their decisions directly affect the size of their property tax bills.

If elected, what will be your philosophy as a member of the township board? 

I will be fiscally responsible and provide transparent and fair government.