John Fritts: 'Experience, integrity and leadership'

I am John F. Fritts, incumbent Lee County treasurer, running for re-election. My experience in this office makes me the most qualified candidate. I am currently in this position and have supervised and maintained the office in a fiscally responsible manner.

I am the recipient of the 2012 Zone 4 Treasurer of the Year award from the Illinois County Treasurers' Association. I was one of four nominated statewide, and was selected by fellow treasurers for the honor. This award is given for distinguished service.

I was elected to and served on the Lee County Board before becoming your treasurer. This helped me become familiar with the functions of the board and the different departments involved. This experience has helped me immensely as Lee County treasurer.

During my tenure on the board, I served as vice chairman, health and welfare chairman, and negotiating chairman, as well as several other committees. I served as the enhanced 911 steering committee chairman for 1 year. I was appointed the Lee County representative to the 4-County Area Job Training Partnership Act and Dixon Industrial Development Association.

My involvement in community activities includes 30 years as a 4-H leader of the Palmyra Hillbillies, recipient of the 4-H Alumni Award in 1992; an IHSA official in baseball, basketball and soccer; member of the Lee County Farm Bureau for 45 years; Newman High School Retreat team leader for 8 years; and a lifelong member of St. Anne Church.

My motto for the treasurer's office is "experience, integrity and leadership." If I am re-elected to this office, I will ensure the state statutes for county treasurers are followed for the fiscal responsibility and management of all county funds. The office will provide monthly updates for all committees of the Lee County Board.

It is important to upgrade our technology on an ongoing basis and to have the safeguards in place to keep our information guarded. With our latest upgrade, we now have the capability to accept partial payments of your taxes.

I will ensure the operation of a professional office with an accurate bookkeeping system and a friendly staff. And it is of utmost importance to me to serve the citizens of Lee County to the best of my ability.

I have been married to my wife, Rolinda, for 45 years. We have two sons, Mark and John (Tessa). We also have three grandchildren, Kendra, John and Logan.