Candy Smith for Mayor of Sycamore – Candidate Questionnaire

Candy Smith

Candidate’s Name: Candy Smith
Office you are seeking: Mayor
Unit of Government: City of Sycamore
Candidate’s website address: Elect Candy Smith Mayor

Q2: Response to the budget crunch

• Unfortunately, taxes and fees must be increased to meet expenditures. N/A
• Expenditures must be reduced to meet the revenue. It’s that simple. N/A
• Taxes are high enough so let’s raise fees. N/A
• This is a time to lean on staff for their recommendations. N/A
• It’s time to hire a consultant and get a report that will guide us through these tough times. N/A
• Hold the line on taxes. Use the rainy day fund to cover expenses. Things have got to get better. N/A

Comment: Sycamore will have passed its budget by the time the new Mayor’s term begins. I will always work to avoid raising property taxes while working to keep our standard of services high. As the City has done for the past 20+ years, we rely on about 50% of our revenue from sales taxes in order to not burden those on fixed incomes.

Q3: What services would you seek to enhance or expand during your term?
As a matter of safety, I’d like to see the City implement business licenses. I want the Fire & Police Departments to be aware what they are walking into when answering an emergency call, Public Works need to know what they are dealing with at the Treatment Plant and they have EPA reports that require answers, and Building & Engineering must know what type of permitting is required for the general public’s safety. This should not be a financial hardship on businesses with a minimal $25 annual fee and a hefty fine to ensure compliance.

Q4: What services would you cut or reduce to balance the budget?
The City of Sycamore has a balanced budget for FY2018.

Q5: What makes you uniquely qualified for the position you are seeking?
I was born, raised, and educated in Sycamore and have 18 years experience with City business. I’m ready to listen to concerns, work to disseminate City information, support downtown development which lends to the City’s small town feel, and continue serving this City I am so passionate about…because I care.

Q6: What does open, transparent government mean to you?
Open, transparent government means conducting business on Council floor and not behind closed doors. I am proud to declare that having been witness to the business of the City of Sycamore for the past 18 years and performing as the FOIA Officer for the City of Sycamore, we are open and transparent.

Q7: What changes to your community are needed?
I want this community to keep the friendly small-town feel and at the same time exhibit consideration, cooperation, and inclusion. I think we can communicate better as neighbors.