Melanie Grzesik-Duffy, Lemont Public Library Trustee Candidate

LEMONT, IL — Melanie Grzesik-Duffy is a candidate for Lemont Public Library trustee. There are four candidates running for four open positions in this race.

The consolidated election is April 4.

You can find Grzesik-Duffy's answers to the Patch candidate questionnaire below:

Your Name:

Melanie Grzesik-Duffy

Age (as of Election Day):

37

Town/City of Residence:

Lemont

Office sought

Library board

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race):

Democrat

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education:

Master’s Degree

Occupation:

Education and Mental Health field for over 10 years

Campaign Website or Facebook:

none

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

none

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

Censorship of books and resources for the community, focus on finances as opposed to providing beneficial services and resources to those within the community.

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

I am a young, forward-thinking person who looks at the whole picture instead of thinking small. I believe in looking towards the future and what the Lemont community needs and not shying away from making difficult, but positive changes. The library has provided companionship, respite, resources, and a sense of community for myself, my husband, and my young daughter. It was an especially "life-saving" space for us during the global pandemic. I value the services it provides and see it as a crucial and vital part of the Lemont community.

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?

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Describe the other issues or ideas that define your campaign platform

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

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Why should voters trust you?

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

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

I believe that our tax dollars should go towards the services, resources, and books the community enjoys, believes in, and finds comfort in. The residents of Lemont should be a part of the conversation in deciding how they want their library to look.

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

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

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

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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?

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

I think that Lemont is growing faster than it will be able to support the community.

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?

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

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The best advice ever shared with me was:

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

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