Politics & Government

2013 Election: Chuck Toland

4th Ward Alderman Chuck Toland seeks another term, against challenger John "Jack" Janozik.

Name: Chuck Toland

Position Sought: 4th Ward Alderman

Campaign Contact Information:

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  • www.ChuckToland.com, Facebook page
  • ctoland@oak-forest.org
  • ctoland@pacormortgage.com
  • 708-687-7164 home
  • 708-825-6189 cell
  • 708-671-5400 work
  • 5570 Ann Marie Lane, Oak Forest, IL 60452

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?
Continue to work with the prospects we have to attract new businesses to Oak Forest as well as keeping the businesses we have which will eventually lead to lowering property taxes and will make additional funds available for capital improvements. We can only improve our community with the cooperation of local business and the funds they generate. 

Family Members:

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  • Wife Karen L. Toland, 44
  • Daughter Samantha, 12
  • Son Charley, 7 

Education

  • Mount Carmel High School, 1983
  • DePauw University, 1987 BA: Major in English Composition, 
  • Minor in Teacher Education 

Current Occupation and Employer

  • Pacor Mortgage
    7300 College Drive #201
    Palos Heights, IL 60463

Political Party Affiliation
Independent 

Why Are You Seeking Office?
I am seeking re-election to continue giving back to the city I grew up and choose to raise my children in. I feel Oak Forest is at a crossroads right now, and I want to help ensure the city continues to go in the right direction. There is a lot to be done, and Oak Forest is still the best place to live and raise a family.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?
My six years of attending budget meetings, levy meetings, Economic Development meetings and being on the council gives me the experience my opponent does not have. My volunteerism shows the work ethic I have in giving my time and experience to the community and all of its residential programs. My leadership proves to be a valuable tool in getting projects done and making the hard decisions.

What is the biggest issue facing Ward 4?
The biggest concern of the residents of the 4th ward is property taxes. I think the majority of the residents understand the amount of their property taxes that goes to the City of Oak Forest is very small for the services they receive, but when people are living day to day with their hard-earned money, any increases are difficult. We need to strive to get the best bang for our city dollars and have as little waste as possible while still offering quality services.

How would you approach it?
I will continue to make sure we have a balanced budget while doing my best to keep any raises in property taxes at a bare minimum. It is fiscally sound practice to pay for current services responsibly and avoiding kicking the debt down the road. We are always looking for ways to diversify our income to offset property taxes so others help with our income and reducing the burden from our residents.

What does the city of Oak Forest need most?
The city of Oak Forest is a lock and key community where its greatest asset is the people who live here. Oak Foresters take care of our own neighbors unlike any other city around. Years ago the people of Oak Forest chose to avoid the commercial traffic and other problems that large business corridors bring. Now the one thing Oak Forest lacks is a steady stream on income produced by sales tax revenue. We need to replenish the businesses we have lost in the past and attract some business that fits in the make-up of our community. 

Anything else?
I am an open communicator. I am always willing to talk to any resident about any situation. I have opened the lines of communication between the city and the residents, and I will continue to find ways to improve the communication. I am available at my office, home or cell. I reply to email, phone and mail, and will always answer questions honestly. We might not always agree, but I will always give you an honest answer in a timely matter. 

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