New Baltimore-Chesterfield Patch is profiling candidates for Chesterfield Township's elected positions. Learn about them here in a series of profiles every day this week.
Name: Kathy Elliott
Age: 42
Political party: Republican
Years lived in Chesterfield: 11
Occupation: Independent Marketing Representative
What position are you running for: Chesterfield Township Treasurer
If elected for the first time, what specifically would you like to see done during your term?
I will make better use of software and advances by using the website more effectively and efficiently. I will look at the current budget to find ways to meet the needs of the community without sacrificing service. I will work with area businesses to create a climate of success to bring jobs.
What do you think the community's biggest challenges are and how can the community overcome them?
Business--Chesterfield is in a great location for many different types of business. It is time to look at why and how things are done. It is necessary to identify any areas that might hinder businesses from developing and investing in Chesterfield.
Residents--The residents are the most valuable asset of any community. Decisions must be made with the best interest of the residents in mind. We need to identify what assets our community has to offer that new home buyers are looking for and look for ways to develop or improve any that are not already pre-existing.
Vision--Modern global competitiveness for business and residents leaves no room for a lack of vision. Word of mouth is the least expensive and most effective way of delivering a message. The people of Chesterfield must develop a vision that provides a understandable, positive and welcoming message that people can be excited about.
How would you propose making the police and fire funds financially stable?
These are tough economic times and I will work with these departments to operate within the budget. I will analyze expenditures and trends and provide research and resources that will assist them. I will put all ideas on the table and compare those to other municipalities in an effort to provide the best possible service to the residents of this great community.
How would you make changes, if any, to community services?
There is always room for improvement. Some services might be improved with an update in technology, and some might benefit through staff training, while other areas can be reorganized for better efficiency. It will be necessary to look at each service individually and find innovative ways to provide great service within the budget.
Describe yourself:
I am a passionate, energetic, positive, goal-oriented person. The most important things in my life are my faith, family and friendships. I have an analytical mind. I consider tough ethical decisions by looking at consequences and obligations. I like to prepare myself and my family for the future. I am grateful to have reached my goals and maintain my priorities.
What are your hobbies/causes you're passionate about?
I am passionate about people. I enjoy the love and company of my family, friends and neighbors. One of the best things that ever happened to me was a fight with cancer 16 years ago. During that battle I was able to reflect on who I was and what my purpose would be. Now that I am cured I have hit the ground running. I realize in today’s economy there will be tough times but we have to view them as opportunities. It is during these times we find out what we are made of.
What’s one fact about you that would surprise people?
I have skydived twice.
Check back with Patch for more candidate profiles throughout the week.
