Terry Olson
Age: 55
Current occupation/employer: Self Employed: Construction Field, Heavy Equipment Operator, Excavation.Underground Utilities, Demolition, Etc.
Educational background: Attend Junior college
Prior governmental experience and/or civic involvement: 30 years experience of municipal work. Retired First Responder. Volunteer at Oswego High School extracurricular activities, local church activities
Why are you seeking election to a seat on the Oswego Village Board?
I want to do all that I can in reducing the current high tax burden that that is being imposed on all residents and businesses in Oswego. Additionally, I would like to increase village services and decrease village fees.
What sets you apart from the other board candidates?
I will bring a vast knowledge of the inner workings of government operations. I have first-hand experience from working both the private and public sectors, and attending corporate leadership classes. As well as being a long time resident of Oswego who listens to local business owners and other residents about their concerns and frustrations with the local government as it stands, together we will bring forth objectives and goals for the entire community.
If elected, what would be your top priority as a board member?
To encourage new businesses and proper growth, so that it benefits the entire village of Oswego.
Do you support the current board’s handling of economic development, including the establishment of the downtown TIF (Tax Increment Financing) district?
In short answer: No. The Village of Oswego Board has had to adjust the financial backing of a project, due to a funding gap.
Do you support the village’s efforts to secure a Metra commuter rail station?
For the most part I believe that a Metra commuter station will benefit the community.
Currently, as I have been attending the board meetings I’ve observed and learned that the village has hired a lobbyist, (FOKN) at $3,500 per month. and started the attempt to acquire funds from the State of Illinois in its Capital Bill. The total project is expected to cost between $150-$300 million, depending on where the last stop will be (Oswego, Yorkville, Plano or Sandwich). Available federal grants could fund up to 50 percent, leaving the local share at approximately $75-$150 million. At this time, there is no definite calculation of what the tax hike would be for each resident of Oswego. Is this another increase in property taxes? I would like more information before committing to this project; this may require an additional TIF District.
Is there fat in the village’s budget? If so, what programs or positions would you work to eliminate?
Without looking at the entire line item budget, I do not believe that there is “fat” in the budget, In regarding programs or positions to eliminate, I would ask staff for a recommendation and ask if there are job sharing or cross training duties before anything is eliminated.