Elisabeth Efird: 2025 candidate for Round Lake village board

Bio

Office sought: Round Lake village board (Vote for 3)

City: Round Lake

Age: 54

Occupation: Attorney

Previous offices held: None

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

The most serious issue in our community is the belief that “nothing can change.” Too many people feel that they do not have a say in their local government. Further there is a belief that the local government cannot positively affect their daily lives. In order to combat this perception, Round Lake board should actively solicit information regarding the needs of the community.

This can be done by sending out surveys; having community action days; reaching out to local school and churches; and intentionally involving all employees to ask the question, “what can we do for you?”

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?

Round Lake has a solid financial base; however, the current situation regarding the increase in our water bill is problematic. There will be a 50% increase in the water bill over the next year. While I think it is great that the board is looking to have improvement projects; I believe that some of the budget should be available to offset this increase.

What do you see as the most important infrastructure project the community 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?

In the summer of 2024, the Round Lake board announced: “U.S. DOT Awards $18.8 Million Grant for Cedar Lake Road Realignment Project Realigning Cedar Lake Road in downtown Round Lake.”

Given the current issues with the federal government, it is crucial that these funds are protected, and the plans move forward. As such the board should work to ensure the federal funding and to begin work on the project as soon as possible.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage local government? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.

As an attorney I have worked with governmental agencies over the last 20 years. These agencies include but are not limited to NLRB, EEOC, NAPIL and IDHR. I believe that there are three crucial requirements for good policy. The first is the ability to listen to the community.

One should never assume that they have the right answer, it is better to be the person who is able to ask the right question. Second, I believe that good policy is developed through determined collaboration. Finally, I believe that it is essential that the community have extensive access to the decision-making process.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I am a long-term member of Round Lake community and have a strong understanding of the needs of my neighbors. I am married and have one child; each of us is involved in the community and appreciates the beauty of the area.

I grew up overseas as my parents served as U.S. diplomats. I have firsthand knowledge about living in a democratic country but also of living in a country where the voices of the people are not heard. This experience has shaped my interest in government and my steadfast belief in the importance for every citizen to have access to their representatives. I believe in the importance of doing research, hard work and actively engaging in problem-solving.

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

Currently, Round Lake board meetings are not being streamed. I believe that the community would be served by every resident having easy access to the board meetings.