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Don Gould
Age 55
Republican
Shorewood
Married to Cindy
Two children: Drew and Joey
Will County Board, District 6
Attorney, self-employed
B.A., Purdue University, J.D., Northern Illinois University Law School
Will County Board member (current) , Troy Township trustee (past)
Website: donaldgould.com
E-mail: Rocklaw94@aol.com
Phone: 815-955-2520
1. Why are you running for the elected office you’re seeking?
As a lifelong resident of Will County, husband and father of two children, I care about our county and its future. I want Will County to succeed and maintain a high quality of life.
2. What skills, qualities or experience do you have that separate you from your opponents?
I have gained valuable experience and knowledge of the county’s functions while chairing two committees, Public Health and Safety and now Public Works and Transportation. As an attorney for 29 years, I understand and respect the limitations upon county government. I approach my duties knowing 50,000 residents in District 6 expect quality services at a fair and reasonable cost.
3. What are the greatest challenges facing Will County and/or your specific district in the coming years?
Will County and District 6 face serious challenges inherent in warehouse expansion and the truck traffic it brings. Some municipalities have embraced this form of economic development, dramatically increasing truck traffic and creating unsafe travel in certain areas. The county has taken the lead among local governments and must continue to work with federal, state and local officials for safe roadways, on interstates, state, township and county highways.
4. Top Three Priorities:
A. Will County must continue to decrease its tax rate so that homeowners are not overburdened by property taxes and maintain an attractive and competitive business environment versus Cook County.
B. Seek out all opportunities for funding and grants for better and safer roads. Through the freight study, Will County has laid the groundwork for Fast Act and Tiger Grant applications and to work in tandem with the Illinois Department of Transportation.
C. I will continue to advocate for greater diversification in our local economy, specifically, in the areas of technology, professional services, research and development. Our elected officials and business leaders need to work cooperatively to create an economy where young skilled college graduates can find employment opportunities and remain in the county where they were born and raised.