- Section sponsored by the Champaign County Business Empowered Political Action Committee -
can assist businesses. Permitting, zoning and land use issues are other areas in which county government can improve the business climate. For example, the Board recently adopted two zoning map amendments to accommodate new businesses.” What are the top 2 infrastructure projects or issues the County needs to address? What is your plan to pay for these projects? “The top two are the maintenance of existing structures and jail space needs. Champaign County has a good set of buildings. They need to be maintained and the County must find the means to do so. I have proposed reserving 20% of the annual growth in revenues for this purpose. The jail space needs study will result in recommendations for modifications to our existing jails or new construction. We have limited ability to fund these improvements and I propose to keep the citizens informed and be prepared to go to them with a possible referendum request to provide the additional resources if needed.”
JEFF KIBLER FOR CHAMPAIGN COUNTY BOARD – DISTRICT 5 What are your top three accomplishments during your tenure in this office? “I started serving on the Champaign County Board within the last seven months. I focused on two pressing issues: the budget and nursing homes. Within the recent budgetary sessions, I worked with our administrator on addressing several concerns regarding department budgets. Going forward, I anticipate to push for more emphasis on budgeting and KPIs for our department. As my family has been involved within geriatric care for many years, I understand the concerns and issues facing nursing homes.” What are your top three priorities for improving the business climate in Champaign County? “Ultimately, the County needs to use the resources provided by local businesses in the most efficient manner. When possible, local governments should try to identify ways to reduce the tax burden on its taxpayers. Fiscal responsibility is a top priority. When government can be responsible, the overall community and business climate improves.”
What are the top 2 infrastructure projects or issues the County needs to address? What is your plan to pay for these projects? “As Southwest Champaign continues to grow, businesses will begin to congregate southwest of I-57 and Windsor Rd. We will need to work with the state to widen the road and overpass to allow for continued growth. Also, I believe we need to bring our fiscal house in order. We do not have a firm grasp on our debt service. We must work together to solve these very tough financial difficulties.”
MAX MITCHELL FOR CHAMPAIGN COUNTY BOARD – DISTRICT 5
What are your top three accomplishments during your tenure in this office? “In March 2012 I was appointed to fill a vacant seat on the board. This is my first election. But during my brief time, one main focus has been on the Champaign County Nursing Home. Another focus has been regarding using eminent domain to complete a section of Olympian Drive. Currently, we are focused on the budget.” What are your top three priorities for improving the business climate in Champaign County? “Economic development for the county. It is my intention to help lead the County Board with the assistance of the Chamber, University and local Economic Development into becoming more accountable to economic development. We also need to change the balance of the board to improve the business climate.” What are the top 2 infrastructure projects or issues the County needs to address? What is your plan to pay for these projects? “The past few boards have been on building sprees. In order to receive the best return on tax dollars, the county needs to roll all their property into a systematic maintenance program. Reduce bond liability is the best method for growth in the county. In today’s economic climate looking for ways to provide services more efficiently is the best approach.”