As this area’s demographics are changing, it is clear that we need a different representation in the state senate. Rather than just maintaining things as they are, we need to forge new and more progressive thinking to issues that need attention now. I have a keen interest in three major areas, education, health care and employee/management issues. Additionally, poverty, environment, transportation, utilities, crime concerns and taxation all need a different perspective than the incumbent espouses. Obviously, the party will be of valuable assistance in outlining some of the issues that need to be addressed as well.

Health Care Issues

Over the past few years new government initiatives have helped to improve the health care for those in need. More can be done in terms of preventive care to reduce the cost burdens associated with severe health issues that arise because of lack of early diagnosis. Citizens with limited financial means, especially with children and those in retirement are in special need of assistance to reduce the potential for financial devastation.

1. At a minimum everyone should have catastrophic health insurance that will essentially eliminate economic ruin for families and the elderly on fixed incomes.

2. We need to push insurance companies to provide more coverage for preventive care or well care. This will significantly reduce the serious and more costly illnesses that occur because of lack of early diagnosis.

3. We should undertake a study of health care costs in comparison to outcomes of treatment.

1. Review all Platforms to reduce spending wherever possible.

2. Prioritize the needs for funding increases to Platforms focusing on education, roads and public transportation, keeping increases within budgetary constraints.

3. If necessary seek the most equitable method for raising additional revenue. Any state tax, especially a business tax, should be coupled with reductions in property tax and other current business taxes.

Education Issues

I believe there is significant work to be done with regard to education in Illinois. We need to give attention and assistance to school districts with regard to:

1. Providing adequate facilities and resources. Most districts are struggling financially for both instructional funding as well as funding for construction of facilities. We need to determine creative ways to help local districts with some revision in the taxing structure that funds them currently. Although difficult to convince the general public, some sort of tax will need to be passed that is equitable in its impact.

2. Preparing students for college or technical schools. I have taught part time in various community colleges for more than thirty years and I have first hand knowledge of the deficiencies students arrive with in the college classroom. I believe that government can be involved in setting guidelines and working with colleges, trades schools and high schools to improve preparation.

3. Affordable education beyond high school is the single most important factor to assist those who are at the bottom of the economic ladder. The inter-generational cycle of low income and limited job opportunity cannot be broken without educational opportunity.

We need to continue to work at balancing employee needs and concern for the small businesses that provide most new jobs and sustain employment for most individuals. This needs to have continual discussion and action on issues such as wages, health insurance/health care, business taxes and other issues important to both sides. With many employees losing ground financially, health needs draining financial resources and job losses a too frequent reality, government must take more initiative in addressing these issues.

1. Skills training and generally upgrading the abilities of lower level employees should be a paramount effort.

2. Working with high schools and community and technical colleges to insure that everyone has an opportunity to meet the requirements for the increasing demand for skilled employment.

Clearly in this area a key concern is the congestion experienced on most major roadways. The flow of traffic through Barrington, the continuing traffic crunch on Route 12 and Route 83, and the inability to move smoothly on all east-west roadways at peak travel times are concerns for the majority of citizens.

1. It is likely we need to more strongly push the Route 53 extension to Route 120 and west and east from there.

2. The movement on the commuter train option on E & J rail tracks should be accelerated.

3. If possible some of the major east-west and north-south should have additional lanes added in all areas of the district.

4. Where viable public transportation should be expanded throughout the suburban area.