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Name:
Richard Tado
What office are you seeking?
Algonquin Township Supervisor
What is your political party?
Republican
What is your current age?
58
Occupation and employer:
Consultant / Self employed
What offices, if any, have you previously held?
Commander, US Coast Guard Auxiliary; Board Member, Operation Horses and Heroes
City:
Campaign Website:
Education:
Lane Technical HS, Chicago IL; Coe College, Iowa BA Business Administration & Psychology
Community Involvement:
Masonic Lodge Master Mason; Operation Horses and Heroes, Board Member; US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Commander; Sons of the American Legion; Venetian Gardens HOA, Vice President
Marital status/Immediate family:
Married 34 years to my amazing wife Selena Tado, 5 beautiful daughters and blessed with 5 grandchildren
Questions:
What is your stance on township consolidation as a means of reducing redundancy in local government?
I do not believe we should consolidate our township as long as it proves its value by operating efficiently, transparently, and with a focus on lowering taxes. Consolidation often sounds like a cost-saving measure, but it can lead to larger, more bureaucratic governments that don’t necessarily serve our residents better. Instead of merging townships, we should prioritize streamlining services, eliminating the current Supervisor Funk’s wasteful spending and nepotism and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely to benefit our community.
What do you think about the censures against Algonquin Township Supervisor Randy Funk?
I think the nine censures against Algonquin Township Supervisor Randy Funk are absolutely unacceptable and criminal. Funk should be investigated by the Township Officials of Illinois and charges should be filed by the McHenry County States Attorney. These censures also raise serious concerns about leadership, transparency, and decision-making. These censures signal a breakdown of trust and accountability within township government—both with the public and among the Trustees elected to serve our community. The Algonquin Township Board of Trustees are responsible for approving ALL expenses and auditing ALL bills submitted for payment. Yet, Supervisor Funk continues to pay bills, sign contracts, create new positions, pay for DUI fees for license reinstatement and continues today, to deny the trustees access to view and audit General and Emergency Assistance without any Trustee approval. This completely undermines the checks and balances that ensure responsible governance. This also erodes public trust in our township.
Does the township have adequate funds for needed roadwork? If not,’what would you do to address that?
To provide an accurate answer, I would first need to review this with the Township Road District’s Highway Commissioner, as their budget is responsible for roadwork in our Township. If needed, I would offer my professional advise to help answer any questions to assist them.
What are your top three priorities for the township, and how do you plan to address them?
Before addressing my key priorities, my first action as the newly elected Supervisor will be to conduct a full forensic audit of all payments from the town fund, general assistance fund and the Emergency Assistance fund, that has been paid and authorized by Supervisor Randy Funk and Office Manager Pam Gavers. Transparency and accountability must be restored immediately.
1. Restoring Transparency and Accountability by implement strict financial oversight to ensure all expenditures and contracts are properly reviewed and approved myself and by the Township Board. Unlock the Township building during business hours to allow residents access into the office, all 5 days of the week, and give them clear communication channels with regular public updates and open forums.
2. Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility by conducting a comprehensive budget review to eliminate wasteful spending and prioritize essential services. Work with the Highway Commissioner to review expenses that might overlap to cut costs and create better efficiencies. Seek cost-saving measures through competitive bidding and responsible contract management. Increase financial transparency by making township expenses and budgets easily accessible to the public.
3. Enhancing Community Services by improving senior support programs and creating a veterans program to better serve those in need. Propose a scholarship program offered to each high school within the township to invest in our youth. Expand partnerships with local organizations to provide more resources and services for residents.
How do you intend to balance economic development with environmental sustainability in the community?
As Township Supervisor, my focus is on delivering efficient and effective township services while being fiscally responsible of our taxpayer dollars. While economic development and environmental policies are largely handled at the county and municipal levels, the township can still play a role in maintaining our community’s character.
I will ensure that our township properties and services are managed responsibly, using cost-effective and sustainable practices where appropriate. Whether it’s maintaining public spaces, overseeing assistance programs, or making sure township operations run efficiently, my goal is to balance fiscal responsibility with smart, commonsense management that benefits our residents now and in the future.
What are your plans for enhancing public transportation and infrastructure in the city?
Public transportation and major infrastructure projects are primarily managed at the county and state levels, but as Township Supervisor, I will advocate for our residents’ needs by working with the appropriate agencies to improve accessibility and services in our community.
I will ensure that township facilities and programs are easily accessible to all residents, including seniors and those with mobility challenges. Additionally, I will support partnerships that connect our residents with transportation resources, such as senior ride programs, paratransit services, or other community-based initiatives.
While we may not control large infrastructure projects, I will always be a strong voice for our township, ensuring that our community’s needs are heard when decisions are being made at higher levels of government.
What role should the township play in supporting local businesses and economic growth?
While the township doesn’t control economic development directly, we can support local businesses by ensuring efficient services and a business-friendly environment. As Supervisor, I’ll work with local business groups, advocate for policies that reduce burdens on small businesses, and promote smart growth that benefits our community. A strong local economy helps everyone, and I’ll make sure our township does its part.
What are your top public safety concerns for our community and how would you propose addressing them?
Public safety is our top priority, and while law enforcement is managed at the county and municipal levels, the township plays an important role in supporting first responders and ensuring residents feel safe.
I will work to strengthen collaboration with law enforcement, emergency services, and community organizations to address safety concerns. This includes supporting programs for seniors, ensuring emergency preparedness resources are available, and advocating for law enforcement funding and community safety initiatives.
A safe community requires strong partnerships, and as Supervisor, I will make sure our township does its part to support those who protect and serve us.
How will you ensure that city policies promote inclusion for all residents?
As Township Supervisor, my goal is to ensure that all residents have equal access to township services and resources. I will promote transparency, fairness, and efficiency in our programs, making sure assistance is available to those who need and qualify for it.
Do you support requiring government officials to publicly disclose potential conflicts of interest, and how would you enforce this?
Absolutely. Government officials should be transparent about potential conflicts of interest to maintain public trust. I fully support requiring officials to disclose any financial or personal interests that could influence their decisions.
As Supervisor, unlike the current Supervisor Funk, I will ensure that township operations follow ethical guidelines (not hire my personal friend as the Township Attorney to rubber stamp everything he does), and that any required disclosures are accessible to the public. I will also advocate for clear policies that prevent conflicts of interest and promote accountability in all township dealings. Residents deserve honest, transparent leadership, and I am committed to upholding those principles.
How will you make sure you are accessible to your constituents?
The first order would be to Unlock the doors at the Township Building and require my Office Manager to be in the office during the hours of operation. No more of the Working from Home on Fridays crap.
I will always be accessible to our residents either by appointment at my office, phone, email and township meetings. I also support increasing transparency by providing clear updates on township matters so residents stay informed and engaged.
My goal is to make sure every resident feels heard and has a direct way to share concerns or ideas. Local government should serve the people, and I am committed to being a responsive and approachable leader.