Melinda MacDonald Gormley states her case for re-election to Monroe Village Board
Melinda MacDonald Gormley states her case for re-election to Monroe Village Board
I am announcing my candidacy for the position of village trustee. I have served in office for four years, two of which as deputy mayor, and am seeking re-election.
Although I have lived in the village of Monroe all my life, in the four years since I was elected, my life has changed greatly. I am married now with two young children. Having a family does change your perspective. I see, for example, even more clearly how important it is to save where we can and keep tax increases as low as possible.
As a board member, I voted against going over the two percent tax cap and I have been working to renegotiate contracts as a way to save money. One accomplishment I am especially proud of is my work on the activities committee. Last summer, we were able to put on three summer concerts. This year we are working to have four concerts as well as other activities, such as a field day and the Halloween parade, for village residents.
I, along with Frank Eppinger, have successfully negotiated a fair contract for our department of public works employees and the two of us are currently working to complete a contract with the village police. Our village employees work very hard to keep the village running, but in these tough economic times it is important to pay special attention to costs when we negotiate.
Despite a terrible economy, our village board has made important improvements. The village has won community development grants for crosswalks and sidewalks, a generator for the ambulance corps, and the police department has been able to fund cameras and a fingerprinting machine, among other items.
We have tried to keep tax increases low while maintaining levels of service to our constituents, and the last few years have seen the lowest increases in a decade.
Last year, we received a grant of $37,000 to purchase and install solar panels on the roof of the water plant to help offset electricity costs. Senior housing legislation was passed, and a purchasing agent position was created that will save the village thousands. Weve been working on a comprehensive plan that will streamline zoning and procedures to encourage businesses to settle and stay in our village.
Our current board works well together: each member brings a different perspective, but all bring something useful to the table. We welcome public comment and are looking forward to more public participation in creating our comprehensive plan.
In the next four years, if re-elected, I hope to expand the activities committee and have it become part of the newly formed Chamber of Commerce. I believe its essential to get our downtown vibrant again and to fill the empty storefronts. I will work for more affordable senior housing with easy access to village stores and activities, and more things to do for young people. Expanding and fixing sidewalks along village roads is another important priority.
Thank you, and please vote for me on Tuesday, March 20.
Melinda MacDonald Gormley