Candidate questionnaire: Harry Benton, Plainfield Village trustee

Name: Harry Benton

Age: 31

Office sought: I am running for Plainfield Village trustee

Political party:  The election is an independent election

Town where you currently reside: I reside in Walker's Grove in Plainfield

Occupation (employer): Ironworker Local 444

Spouse/Children: I am married, Erin Benton, with a daughter Evelyn Ann Benton

Education:

Website:

Email: harrybenton4trustee@yahoo.com

Phone (for possible constituents to call:

Facebook: facebook.com/harrybenton4trustee

Twitter:

Why are you running for the elected office you're seeking?

I am looking to bring fresh, new ideas to Plainfield, to maintain the great quality of life and services provided by the village, and make us more viable for the future.

What skills, qualities or experience do you have that separate you from your opponents?

I am a candidate who grew up and lived in the area, and have always loved the town of Plainfield. I am very proactive, and am in regular attendance of village board meetings, events, and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the projects and activities taking place in the village and surrounding areas. I also have a working relationship with the village departments, as a board member of Walker's Grove HOA and a resident. I have been proactive in making sure the voices and concerns of the residents are heard and addressed. Having extensive construction knowledge, and having seen the haphazard development of the surrounding areas first-hand, I will bring insight to the table and experience for responsible development.

What are the greatest challenges Plainfield is facing in the coming years?

The greatest challenges for Plainfield include traffic, trains and the need for responsible growth and economic development. The infastructure needs work, but not in a way that is inconvenient to residents. A solution needs to be implemented to alleviate the taxing amount of trains. Growth is inevitable, and needs to be taken very seriously, to be done in a responsible manner, in accordance to a long-term growth plan, and to make sense for the community.

If elected, what will be your top three priorities?

If elected, I will maintain transparency, accessibility, responsibility and respectfulness; work on economic growth; and work toward implementing a well thought out plan to work on the roads and infrastructure, ensuring we provide the highest level of village services. I will also strive to implement solutions to offer tax relief for residents.