Steve Morley: Candidate for Elmhurst Mayor

Campaign Information
www.MorleyforMayor.com
steve@morleyformayor.com

Family: Wife, Nancy; son, Reed, 15; and daughters Jeanette, 13, and Anna, 12

Education: University of Iowa ’91- BA, Economics

Occupation: President, Marketing Resources Inc., Elmhurst

Why Are You Seeking Office? 

For me, the answer is a personal one. I grew up in Elmhurst, attended school and church here. After college, my wife and I decided to return so that we could raise our family here. Now my children attend school in Elmhurst, and I am president of an Elmhurst business.

I have reaped the value of growing up and living in Elmhurst.  Recognizing that benefit, I want to make sure Elmhurst is the same great place to grow up for my children, and for all future generations of Elmhurst families and businesses.

I believe the mayor of Elmhurst needs to seek input, build consensus and put the interests of the Elmhurst residents ahead of his or her own agenda.

What will be your highest priority if elected?

I believe there are three major issues facing the City of Elmhurst: revenue, redevelopment and improvement of our infrastructure. Without a consistent, healthy revenue stream, our city cannot continue to provide needed services to our citizens. Responsible development will broaden our tax base and reduce the tax burden on homeowners.  As a mature community, we need to make sure that we strive for maximum and best use when exploring redevelopment. Finally, with stable economic growth, we must continue to update and improve our infrastructure including our sanitary and storm water systems.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am the president of an Elmhurst-based marketing company. Marketing is a service business. I have to meet my clients’ needs every day and balance the books. As such, I have developed a unique skill set that allows me to successfully meet my clients’ needs in a fiscally pragmatic manner.

On the City Council, I have a record of working with individuals of different backgrounds and experiences in order to serve the city’s best interest. 

I recognize the benefits of debate and discussion, I have always done so in a professional, courteous and respectful manner. I have proven that I have the ability to compromise and build consensus while reaching common goals for the benefit of Elmhurst.

What is your vision of the future of Elmhurst and how would you work toward making that vision a reality?

My vision for the future of Elmhurst includes a prosperous community that is known for its safe neighborhoods, low taxes, well maintained streets and improved sanitary and storm water infrastructure.  In order to make that vision a reality, we must learn to do more with less.  That means Elmhurst must embrace cutting-edge technology and progressive policies in its operation in order to maximize efficiencies. 

Further, well-planned growth and development will allow for modernization to occur in a manner that maintains the current character and charm of our city while increasing revenue without further burdening taxpayers.

How do you see the role of mayor in Elmhurst’s city manager style of government?

It is understood that in the city manager form of government, the position of mayor is that of public advocate for the city and its citizens. The mayor is also charged with running productive meetings in which all viewpoints can be expressed and necessary work can be completed. The city manager is charged with the responsibility of overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city and its staff. As such, I see the role of mayor as one of leadership and guidance.

In order to successfully move forward as a city, the mayor must be able to build consensus and promote open and meaningful discussion among the City Council members. Additionally, the mayor must always represent the city with honor and dignity, on the dais and in the community.

How would you improve transparency in city government?

Transparency is the key to increasing government accountability by expanding opportunities for public participation in the governing process and improving access to information. I have always supported, and continue to promote, openness and transparency in city operations through improved access to website information, payments and contract bidding.

In order to address the issues raised in the recent opinion of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, I have called for expanded education for the City Council on the requirements of the Open Meetings Act and review of the city attorney’s advice upon which the council relied in proceeding with the meetings that were the subject of that opinion.

As an alderman, what was your most significant contribution to the city of Elmhurst?

Over the course of the last six years of serving the City of Elmhurst as an alderman, I have established a distinguished list of accomplishments that have benefitted the people of Elmhurst. Some of my significant contributions include:

• Sponsored electric aggregation which resulted in a published estimated annual savings of $4.2 million for Elmhurst residents and businesses.
• Initiated a common-sense change in the budget process that will result in more efficient planning and the spending of tax payer dollars.
• Instituted a city-wide hiring freeze in order to ensure a smooth successful transition for the new city manager. This resulted in a reduction in spending without minimizing any city services.
• Successfully proposed and negotiated a reduction in 2009 property tax levy.
  

Are there things you can accomplish as mayor that you could not accomplish as an alderman? What?

The mayor is uniquely positioned to impact, promote and guide city growth.  Further, it is well established that redevelopment is the key to increased city revenue that will allow Elmhurst to provide high quality city services and maintain well conditioned infrastructure without overly burdening taxpayers.

My tenure on the City Council has proven that I am uniquely qualified to lead the City Council in a respectful and honorable manner. I have a record of successfully communicating with citizens and council members in order to achieve consensus and promote development that is mindful of the character and charm of our city.

What other message do you want to get across to Elmhurst voters?

As an alderman, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Elmhurst for the past six years. My wife and I chose to make Elmhurst our home because we believe in the character and integrity of this community. My experience as small businessman, community volunteer and alderman makes me uniquely qualified to be the next mayor. I will bring this experience to City Hall with me every day in working to attain sensible policies and to keep Elmhurst successful. As mayor, I will provide strong, ethical leadership, progressive solutions and commitment to good government.