My name is Respicio “Res” Vazquez. I am running to serve as a River Forest village board trustee. River Forest is a wonderful community comprising great schools, historic homes, natural scenery and neighborly residents, all of which attracted my wife and me to join this community. I have participated in community activities such as the D90 Caucus (2014 & 2017), D90 Inclusive Advisory Board, and the D90 Spelling Bee. I also currently serve as a board president of two condominium associations outside of River Forest.
Although this is my first time running for the village board, this would not be my first time serving in a public position. I previously served as the state superintendent of education for the Illinois State Board of Education. As an attorney, I have worked as an in-house counsel for public institutions such as the Chicago Public Schools, the City Colleges of Chicago, the Illinois Board of Education, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. I am currently a partner at Franczek Radelet P.C., representing public elementary, middle and high schools, community colleges and state universities. I have prepared for and attended many public board meetings, including participating in open and closed sessions of such public meetings. I am hoping to bring my positive experiences in the public sector to the village board in serving the best interests of our River Forest community.
In working with public bodies, I convene public meetings, listen to many people, and balance the needs of the varied positions and viewpoints expressed at these meetings. Most involve and impact the education of children. I regularly deal with issues that are personal, emotional and controversial. I am approachable, patient, a good listener, a good communicator, and a consensus builder. I find these innate traits to be helpful in reaching a balanced and measured decision that benefits a community. I am committed to continue to do the same for River Forest.
Specifically, I am interested in getting closure for the completion and opening of the Fresh Thyme store on North Avenue, which has had delays and is now projected to open in August 2017. I will also be focusing on our economic development/TIF initiatives, such as the ones at Lake & Lathrop and on North Avenue. I would like to provide some tax relief to our residents by increasing commercial tax revenue streams.
Regarding our health and neighborhood, I am concerned about addressing the soil contamination at Lake & Lathrop. As part of any redevelopment of this area, I would like to have a developer fully address this issue to alleviate the residents of this expense and provide a clean and healthy environment. Additionally, part of our community’s alluring scenery is made up of the historic homes, which I would like to preserve and to avoid situations such as the demolition of the former Mars mansion.
I would be honored to serve the River Forest residents, and I hope you will vote for me for village board trustee on April 4 (www.friendsofresvazquez.com).