1. Why did you decide to run for mayor?
After much thought and encouragement from family, friends, and community members, I made the decision to run for mayor. Peotone has been my home for over two decades, and I deeply care about its future. I believe that our town has incredible potential, but we need leadership that is proactive, transparent, and truly invested in the well-being of its residents.
My wife, Denise, and I love this town – we chose to build our life here. I want to ensure Peotone remains a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and our sense of community remains strong. I’m not running for political gain; I’m running because I care about Peotone and want to see it reach its full potential.
2. Have you ever held public office?
No, I am not a career politician. I am a family man, a retired business owner, and an engaged community member who believes Peotone deserves a leader who truly listens and cares. My experience in business, leadership, and community involvement has given me the skills to lead effectively, make smart financial decisions, and bring people together to find solutions.
3. What is your background (length of time lived in Peotone, education, career)?
I was born and raised in Chicago Heights and moved to Peotone over 20 years ago because I saw the potential and charm of this amazing village. I’ve been married to my wife, Denise, for 46 years and am blessed with three daughters and seven grandchildren.
My education started at St. Agnes Grade School and Marian Catholic High School, both in Chicago Heights. I attended Prairie State College before ultimately choosing a hands-on career as an automotive technician. I became a Master Technician and later transitioned into service management and customer relations management. My career spanned 35 years in the automotive industry, where I learned the importance of problem-solving, customer service, and leadership.
After that, I pivoted to becoming a general contractor, opening my own business to build and remodel homes right here in Peotone and the surrounding area. I successfully ran my business for 14 years before retiring in 2022. This career path taught me the importance of budgeting, project management, and working within a community to improve the places where people live and work.
4. What community involvement, organization, affiliations, or club memberships do you have?
I have always been an active and engaged member of Peotone’s community. I participate in the village parade and attend many community events. I am a lifetime member of the Peotone Historical Society and a supporting member of St. Paul the Apostle Parish, where I regularly attend Mass and have helped with the Shrove Beef Dinner. I’m an avid bowler and belong to a league at Peotone Bowl.
I was also an ASE-certified technician until my retirement and spent 17 years coaching and managing girls’ softball teams, both in Chicago Heights and here in Peotone. Supporting youth sports is something I’m passionate about because I believe in giving back to the next generation and helping kids develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills.
5. What characteristics, qualifications, or experience do you feel you possess to be mayor?
I believe in doing things the right way – whether it’s fixing cars, building homes, running a business, or leading a community. I’m a problem solver who isn’t afraid of hard work, and I know how to make things happen.
My years of management experience have taught me the importance of planning, budgeting, and executing projects successfully. Running a business requires leadership, responsibility, and the ability to make tough decisions while keeping customers – and in this case, citizens – at the forefront. I believe my skills, combined with my deep love for Peotone, make me the right person to lead our village forward.
6. What do you think the Village needs right now and what would be the first thing you would do if you’re elected?
Peotone needs stronger leadership that actively works to bring in businesses that can help increase our tax revenue and improve financial transparency. The first thing I would do is conduct a deep review of the budget to ensure tax dollars are being used responsibly and effectively.
I also believe that the rising cost of water and sewer bills is a major concern for many residents. One of my first actions would be to meet with Aqua management and push for a reduction in these bills to ease the financial burden on our residents.
7. What are some long-term goals you would like to see the Village complete?
Attract Large Businesses – Bringing in businesses that generate revenue will ease the tax burden on residents and provide more local job opportunities.
Improve Infrastructure – Our streets and sidewalks need serious attention. Walking through the village, I’ve seen firsthand the areas that need repair, and in some places, sidewalks are missing altogether.
Revitalize the Downtown Area – I would love to see Peotone’s downtown area become a hub for small businesses, dining, and community events.
Strengthen Community Engagement – I want to implement regular town hall meetings where residents can voice their concerns and be actively involved in shaping Peotone’s future.
8. What do you feel the Village needs to improve and why?
Peotone needs better fiscal responsibility, transparency, and communication between leadership and residents. Many people I’ve spoken with feel left in the dark about village decisions and how their tax dollars are being spent. Being told to “attend board meetings” is not enough – our leadership should proactively communicate with the community.
To improve this, I would implement quarterly town hall meetings where residents can directly share their concerns and ask questions. I also want to focus on supporting existing businesses, ensuring they have what they need to succeed and grow.
9. What are important issues you’d like to address and how will you address them?
Aqua Water Bills – I will sit down with Aqua to push for lower rates and a fairer billing structure for our residents.
Wetlands by the High School – This issue requires collaboration with all parties involved to find the best solution that benefits the community.
Spending and Budget Transparency – I will conduct a line-by-line budget review to ensure every dollar is spent wisely and work toward lowering unnecessary costs.
Infrastructure and Sidewalks – I will prioritize road and sidewalk repairs to ensure safe and accessible routes for all residents.
10. The mill is the feature point of the town and in disrepair. The mill was deeded to the Village but all the land surrounding it is privately owned. How would you address the mill’s needs given the lack of revenue and situation?
The Mill is a special part of Peotone’s identity – it’s on our village logo, water towers, and vehicles. Restoring it would not only preserve our history but also attract visitors and businesses to Peotone.
I would work with the Peotone Historical Society and landowners. I would also explore funding options, such as grants, sponsorships, and private donations to restore the Mill to its original weathered look while ensuring it is structurally sound and safe for visitors.
Long-term, I believe hosting more seasonal events, farmers’ markets, or educational tours that celebrate Peotone’s heritage would bring in more visitors to Peotone. By revitalizing the Mill, we can strengthen our village’s charm and bring new energy to our downtown area.
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