As your Kane County Board Representative, Cherryl Strathmann will focus on the Issues that matter to everyone The Economy and JobsCherryl has been a small business owner since 1991. It is important that Kane County encourages and supports small business, while being a leader in policies and innovative programs to assure an educated workforce for Kane County businesses. A thriving economy benefits us all. Open Spaces/ Strategic PlanningKane County is a mix of Urban and Rural communities. Cherryl would like to work to maintain a balance of development of our urban areas and preservation of our open spaces. Meeting the needs of all Kane County residents while keeping an eye on the future expansion is critical. Renewable energy, our Environment, and the EconomyCherryl believes now is the time to make a commitment to the Earth and working to stop climate changes that are affecting us every day. We have all seen the increasing severity of storms, the rising temperatures, and unnatural fluctuations in our seasons. There are many opportunities for new ,innovative programs that will not only help the Earth but provide many jobs. Jobs that may be in manufacturing, construction, or management. We must move forward to Save our planet, our only home, and plan for our future. Cherryl and her husband Carl had solar panels installed a year ago, and have enjoyed the tremendous savings , while supporting the sustainability this provides. VeteransCherryl is the daughter of an Army veteran, and also the wife of an Army Veteran. She knows first hand how important services are to the veterans and their families. They have served our country and deserve to receive the care and programs that can now help them. Many of our vets are homeless, suffer from PTSD, and are unemployed. Local services can help. TransportationAs Kane County continues to grow and expand, transportation, infrastructure, and our roadways become even more important. This is critical for all who live and work in Kane County. It is more than just a matter of convenience, it is a safety issue. And a big budget ticket item. Cherryl believes it is important to budget in a judicious and appropriate manner for long term goals. Short sightedness can be much more costly in the long run. Planning is the key. Fair Tax ProposalCherryl supports the Fair Tax proposal for Illinois. I have listened to presentations and read articles on this subject. This proposal would create a Progressive Tax schedule instead of the flat tax currently used. Some of the main points are:· Lifts the Burden off Lower and Middle income Illinois citizens by asking the Wealthiest to pay their Fair Share · Requires only individuals making more than $250,000 to pay more · Generates additional revenue to fund schools and lower the property tax burden · Addresses Illinois’ structural budget deficits and puts the state on the path toward fiscal sustainability Forest Preserve DistrictAs a former docent for Kane County Forest Preserves, Cherryl understands and appreciates the beauty and cultural history of our Natural World, and plans to work to preserve , restore, and promote these treasures. Since 1925, the Forest Preserve District has worked to enhance the quality of life for all Kane County residents. Our outdoor areas can provide useful educational and recreational opportunities to explore the world we live in. Community Resources and Support ProgramsIt is important to have programs that can extend resources and information to families in need. Cherryl was raised by a single mother, after the death of her father when she was eight. Times were hard, and her mother worked diligently to provide for Cherryl and her sisters. Programs to help families in these situations are important to assure safe and productive futures for our youngest citizens.