Ricky Rivard: 2024 candidate for Kane County Board District 12

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office Sought: Kane County Board District 12

City: St. Charles

Age: 43

Occupation: Adjunct professor

Previous offices held: None

Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what?

In my view, an effective government can significantly improve the quality of life for its constituents. It should provide support when necessary without overstepping its bounds.

A government that fosters a safe environment for individuals to grow, learn, and take risks — without fear of failure — is essential.

Our community deserves a representative who listens, responds, and advocates for the needs of all Kane County residents. I believe in the power of good governance and policies to enhance daily life. The 12th District deserves a representative who respects, defends, and listens to all.

While all issues are important, my key focus is investing in mental health resources at the county level. I want to ensure every Kane County resident has access to the services and programs available. Investing in mental health brings both immediate and long-term benefits to our community.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

Different roles in life require different skills, but there are key abilities I will bring to the county board from day one.

As a professor, I regularly take complex ideas, distill and synthesize them, and communicate them clearly to diverse audiences. I’ll bring that same approach to the board — ensuring transparency, understanding, and effective communication with both fellow members and Kane County residents.

My priority is to deliver on the policies I’m running on: mental health investment, pedestrian safety and accessibility, investment in our forest preserves, and safer streets. These issues transcend party lines, and I look forward to working with board members and departments to implement positive change for our county.

I am committed to fostering a collaborative environment where good governance thrives and the needs of our community are addressed.

Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming in the future and how the county should deal with them.

I will be committed to carefully managing our county’s budget, ensuring that spending aligns with available revenues. I have a fiduciary responsibility to manage the county's revenue in a prudent and judicious manner, and I will always put people first in all my fiscal decisions.

It will be crucial to balance essential services like public safety, infrastructure, and other vital services with fiscal responsibility. I will prioritize efficiency, cost savings, and transparency in how funds are allocated.

The biggest threat to our fiscal health will be a potential fiscal cliff, where revenues may fall short of the county’s budgetary needs. Other challenges will include infrastructure demands, environmental and climate risks, and rising service costs.

By fostering fiscal discipline and accountability, we will maintain the quality services residents rely on. With a forward-thinking approach and collaboration with stakeholders, we will navigate these challenges together.

Does there need to be more bipartisanship and cooperation on the county board? If yes, what would you do to help make that happen?

In today's political landscape, bipartisan cooperation is crucial. Working across party lines builds consensus, harnesses diverse perspectives, and strengthens trust within the community.

I will advocate for open communication between board members, promote shared goals like public safety and infrastructure improvements, and encourage cross-party committees to find solutions together.

Transparency in decision-making and valuing every board member’s contributions are essential for fostering unity. I will lead by example, promoting respectful dialogue and cooperation to create a more unified and effective county board.

What role should the county play in combating the opioid crisis?

By embracing a comprehensive and compassionate approach, the county can drive significant progress in several key areas. Enhancing access to evidence-based treatment and support services ensures residents struggling with addiction receive the help they need to recover and rebuild.

Investing in prevention and education programs is a crucial part of any opioid strategy informing the public the dangers associated with opioid misuse.

Supporting harm reduction initiatives such as needle exchange programs and distribution of naloxone which will save lives and reduce the spread of infectious diseases. And, of course, working with our law enforcement agencies to further reduce the amount of dangerous drugs on our streets.

Our county has the potential to be a beacon of hope and progress in the fight against the opioid crisis. By approaching this challenge with empathy, determination, and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our residents.

What role should the county play in increasing affordable housing in the region?

Attainable housing is more than just a necessity; it is the foundation upon which strong, vibrant communities are built. The county can spearhead initiatives to streamline zoning regulations and create incentives for developers to build attainable housing.

Collaboration between the county, municipalities, and builders is crucial and by fostering these connections we can leverage resources to address the attainable housing crisis.

Finally, investing in infrastructure and a focus on sustainable, well-planned development will benefit the county now and into the future. I am confident that with a forward-thinking approach and a commitment to collaboration, we can address the attainable housing challenge and make a real difference in the lives of our residents.

Together, we can create a community where everyone has access to safe, affordable, and quality housing.