Brian Bartnick: 2025 candidate for Island Lake mayor

Bio

Office sought: Island Lake mayor

City: Island Lake

Age: 72

Occupation: Retired

Previous offices held: N/A

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? Also, what makes you the best candidate for the position?

I am running to develop honesty and transparency with and open-door policy for the residents. I will lead the community with care and genuine concern.

My goal is to eliminate wasteful spending, wrongful hiring. I would like to bring back family-oriented events and children's programs.

I have been part of the community for 50 years, and want to be a part of watching it prosper.

What is the most serious issue your community will face in coming years and how should leaders respond to it?

I see Infrastructure repairs and updates are needed. As a team we will research the topic at hand and come up with the best solution possible.

How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?

I believe the finance are not good. Until I get elected and can review, I cannot comment.

A village administrator is needed even if part-time.

Storm sewers, lake and beaches, trees and roof for village Hall should be looked into.

Unnecessary purchases of expensive equipment. Curtail salaries for unqualified employees.

What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?

The village is the most important infrastructure project. We will research and address options including grants and other funding.

The roof of the village hall should have been addressed 4 years ago when I was public works director. It can be put on back burner but needs to addressed.

Describe your leadership style and explain how you think it will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.

Using common sense and working with the village as team. Being in the position of mayor, I serve the people, the people do not serve me.

What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

Bringing the community together creating a place people are proud to call home.