What I'd Like to Accomplish as Your County Clerk

I was recently asked to explain the three major things I would like to accomplish as the new Lake County Clerk. This was something I already thought about as I decided to seek the office, and so I had a ready answer.

Those who follow my campaign won’t be surprised to know my first priority is building on a strong foundation of technology and innovation already established by my predecessor and her staff. Under Clerk Willard Helander the office became one of the first in the state to install Optical Scan Voting. People with special needs have AutoMARK with which to cast their ballots. The office also has a user friendly website and is active in social media providing the latest information to voters, candidates, public office holders and taxpayers generally. Online voter information is in full swing assuring voters of privacy while at the same time making the process transparent.

These are all major steps made by the office -- steps that I would continue and upon which I would build.

My goal is to improve voter education on the election process and to increase participation in all aspects.
My second priority is staying one step ahead of major legislative initiatives. Legal changes often require new procedures and, necessarily, training for staff and election judges and, in some instances, costly new equipment. By being pro-active, the Clerk’s office can be poised to meet financial and logistical challenges head-on.

A third and significant priority is to increase voter participation. During the last 10 years, Lake County residents have been offered more opportunities to register and to vote. On the flip side, voter turnout has been either stagnant or dropped.
While not a specific duty of the County Clerk, I think promoting voter participation is a logical extension of the office. I’d like to join with community groups, civic organizations and schools to get the message to all residents about the importance of voting.

I am confident that the citizens of Lake County believe that fair and open elections represent the cornerstone of our democratic process. I am committed to zealously protecting each voter’s right to cast his/her ballot and to comply with the state and federal laws enacted to ensure the integrity of the election.