Mold Remediation in Des Plaines, IL

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Des Plaines|Local Event

Elizabeth , Neighbor

Tue, Apr 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM

259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines, IL, 60016

In person Meditation 7 - 7:45 pm Tuesday April 15, 2025

Unity Des Plaines Spiritual Center Inner peace, harmony and healing.

Questions: Elizabeth at 847-540-6977

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Tom Merlin is running for 5th ward alderman on the Des Plaines City Council.

Have you served on any governmental units before? If so, please explain.

I haven’t served on any governmental units; this is my first attempt to serve in an elected capacity. I do believe serving Des Plaines is essential for ensuring that the views of all residents are heard. Whether through elected office, volunteering, or advocacy, community involvement strengthens democracy, improves local services, and fosters a sense of unity. When individuals step up to serve, they bring perspectives that help shape policies, solve problems, and enhance the overall quality of life.

Have you performed volunteer work or served in other capacities that benefit the public?

Yes, I have actively volunteered in various capacities that benefit the Des Plaines community. I coached both soccer and baseball at the Des Plaines Park District when my children were younger. For the past 17 years, I have been teaching 8th-grade religious education at St. Zachary. Additionally, I have served on advisory boards for Alden Skilled Nursing and the former Lattof YMCA in Des Plaines. Currently, I have served on the Volunteer Board for the Center of Concern for nearly 10 years and have been the board president for the past four years. I have also been the master of ceremonies for the Des Plaines 4th of July Parade for the past three years. Furthermore, I have volunteered as a nationally certified USA Swim Official for 18 years, supporting young athletes and the Des Plaines swimming community. I really believe that volunteering is essential in building a strong, supportive community.

List the top 5 issues the city of Des Plaines should be focusing on.

Reducing city debt has been a priority for Des Plaines, and the city has made significant progress, reducing its debt by over 82% since 2005. Continuing this trajectory is essential for the long-term financial stability of the city. In addition to fiscal responsibility, investing in infrastructure, including streets, alleys, water and sewer systems, and public facilities, is crucial for both the 5th ward and the city as a whole. Improving and maintaining these systems ensures that Des Plaines remains a safe and efficient place to live and grow. Streamlining administrative processes is another important area for improvement. Simplifying paperwork for residents and businesses can enhance efficiency and encourage economic growth, making it easier for people to navigate city services. Although specific initiatives haven’t been outlined, this remains a key area to focus on. The city is also actively working on advancing downtown development by pursuing transit-oriented projects to create a dense, walkable, mixed-use area. This not only promotes sustainable transportation but also supports local businesses, strengthening the downtown economy. Finally, revitalizing the Oakton Street Corridor is a major focus, with plans to redevelop key sites, including the former Kmart property. These efforts aim to enhance streetscapes, attract new businesses, and potentially establish a new Metra station, all of which would stimulate economic growth and improve the area’s overall vibrancy.

What is your top priority, if elected?

If elected, my top priority is to be the best representative of the of the 5th ward as I can. As their representative on the city council, my top priority is to listen to the concerns, ideas, and needs of the 5th ward. Open communication and engagement with residents in the ward will ensure that their voices are heard and that city decisions reflect their best interests. I will work to provide assistance in any way I can, whether by addressing neighborhood concerns, helping navigate city services, or advocating for policies that improve the quality of life in our ward. My goal is to be accessible, responsive, and proactive in finding solutions that benefit both individual residents and the community as a whole.

Do you support the measures the city has taken in recent years to push for more development, or do you have other ideas on how to succeed on this subject?

Yes, I support the efforts the city has made to encourage development, as they are helping attract new businesses and create a more vibrant community. To continue this progress, it’s important to not only bring in businesses but also support residential growth, ensuring that the city’s demographics align with what those businesses need to thrive. At the same time, enhancing community events can make Des Plaines a more attractive destination. A weekly farmers market, a monthly classic car show, and an expanded Taste of Des Plaines are just a few ideas that could bring people together, support local businesses, and showcase everything the city has to offer.

Why do you want to run for Des Plaines alderman?

After years of volunteering and at the request of both the current alderperson and the mayor of Des Plaines, I decided to give back in a more direct way to the residents of the 5th ward. Serving as alderman is an opportunity to build upon my years of community involvement and make a greater impact by addressing local concerns, advocating for residents, and helping shape the future of our city. Des Plaines has given so much to me and my family, and I believe in the importance of continuing to give back.

What are your three top priorities for your ward or the city?

My top priorities for the 5th ward and the city of Des Plaines are focused on improving communication, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. First and foremost, I believe in the importance of open communication, so I will prioritize hosting quarterly ward meetings to provide residents with consistent opportunities to voice their concerns, ask questions, and stay informed about city initiatives. These meetings will allow for direct interaction with me, helping ensure that the needs of the community are heard and addressed. In addition, continuing to improve our city’s infrastructure is essential. I will focus on adding sidewalks, curbs, and water mains to enhance walkability, drainage, and overall maintenance, ensuring our infrastructure supports both current residents and future development. Along with that, I will work on modernizing the city’s codes to streamline the permitting process, making it easier for residents and businesses to complete routine improvements like home renovations and expansions, thereby encouraging responsible development and reducing bureaucratic delays. Lastly, fiscal responsibility is a key priority. It is crucial to continue managing the city’s debt and finances prudently to ensure long-term stability. By focusing on reducing debt and maintaining financial discipline, Des Plaines can remain financially sound, allowing for essential services, infrastructure investments, and growth without overburdening taxpayers.

What in your experience makes you the best person to vote for?

I believe my experience and deep-rooted connection to Des Plaines make me the best person to vote for. When my wife Lisa and I were looking for a place to settle down after we got married in 1985, we researched various areas. While she grew up in Park Ridge and I lived and worked in Chicago, we ultimately chose Des Plaines — and we’ve never looked back. This city has been our home for nearly four decades, and I’ve always been dedicated to staying active in the community. Throughout the years, I’ve found various ways to give back, from coaching youth sports to teaching religious education. In 2020, when my son graduated from Maine West during the challenges of the pandemic, I created the Seniors Caring for Seniors Car Parade. It was a special event that brought much-needed joy to both the graduating seniors and the senior community that had been isolated during lockdown. I will always remember the sight of residents waving from their windows with signs congratulating the Class of 2020. In addition to these community efforts, I’m passionate about animals. I bring my pets to senior facilities as part of my “All-God’s Creatures” show, where we share moments of joy and entertainment with the residents. Since 2019, I’ve done over 100 shows, all with the goal of bringing fun and comfort to our older population. With the support of the current alderman and mayor, both of whom encouraged me to run, I believe my spirit of giving, my long-standing commitment to Des Plaines, and my dedication to helping others make me the right candidate for 5th ward alderman.

Has the city done enough/too much to assist businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic? Are other measures called for as the state approaches Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan?

The city has made notable efforts to support businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and we now have a much better understanding of the situation compared to when it first began. As we move forward, it’s important to continue supporting local businesses while adapting to changing circumstances. Should another outbreak or future pandemic occur, it’s likely that our response will be more informed and tailored based on what we’ve learned from the COVID-19 experience. As we approach Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan, it’s essential to stay proactive and ready to implement any necessary measures that continue to assist businesses and ensure the health and safety of the community.

What is your approach to setting property tax levies and other fees?

My approach to setting property tax levies and other fees would begin with a careful and thoughtful review of the data. It’s important to understand where and how funding is being allocated and why certain levels of funding are necessary. I believe in ensuring that any fees or taxes applied are directly aligned with the actual needs of the community, with a focus on being efficient and responsible in our approach. Any decisions on increasing fees or taxes should be the result of honest, transparent discussions, always considering the impact on residents and striving to maintain financial stability without overburdening taxpayers.

What is your approach to setting compensation in terms of salary and bonuses for city staff, including top executive staff and entry-level staff?

My approach to setting compensation for city staff, including both top executive and entry-level positions, is based on merit. I believe salary increases and bonuses should be tied to individual and team performance, ensuring that employees are meeting or exceeding their set job goals and expectations. Every employee should have a clear job description and defined objectives, and compensation should reflect their ability to meet those goals. For entry-level staff, I would expect the city to have conducted an HR study to determine competitive salary ranges for these positions. If such a study has not been done, I would make it a priority to ensure that fair and appropriate compensation is in place, ensuring the city attracts and retains qualified individuals while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Support local news by subscribing to the Journal & Topics in print or online.

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Community Corner

The declaration recognizes in observance of Pakistan Day on August 14, the US state of Illinois Senate passed a resolution on March 23

This post was contributed by a community member.

To mark the 85th Pakistan Day, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago hosted a dignified reception attended by around 300 guests, including members of the Pakistani American community, senior elected officials, federal and state representatives, members of the Consular Corps, academicians, and journalists. U.S. Congressman Jonathan Jackson was the Chief Guest for the occasion.

In his keynote address, Consul General Tariq Karim congratulated the Pakistani American community on this auspicious occasion, recalling the historic struggle for Pakistan’s independence. He paid tribute to the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and other leaders and activists for their tireless efforts and countless sacrifices for Pakistan. He expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for their legitimate struggle for the right to self-determination. He also highlighted the messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan on the occasion.

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Consul General Tariq Karim emphasized that Pakistan has made significant strides on multiple fronts since its independence, successfully overcoming various challenges. He highlighted the importance of Pakistan as a key destination for business, trade, investment, and tourism. He mentioned that the government has effectively addressed macroeconomic challenges and stabilized the economy through various reforms. The Consul General underscored Pakistan’s initiatives to empower women and minorities, as well as the nation’s ongoing fight against terrorism.

The Consul General stressed the significance of the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the United States, elaborating on various dimensions of bilateral relations, including the growing trade volume and the success of U.S. businesses in Pakistan.

Consul General Tariq Karim outlined his key priorities and initiatives, highlighting Pakistan’s growing economic and trade partnership with the Midwest region. He mentioned a remarkable 38% increase in Pakistani exports over the past year. He also noted the rising investments from the Midwest, particularly in sectors such as IT, the pink rock salt industry, energy, agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality.

The Consul General recognized the contributions of the Pakistani American community to the socio-economic development of both countries and their vital role as bridge builders. He urged community members to demonstrate unity and solidarity, continue promoting Pak-U.S. relations and the welfare of the community.

Congressman Jonathan Jackson, in his remarks, extended warm greetings for Pakistan Day, acknowledging the significance of bilateral ties and the vital role played by the Pakistani American community. Other dignitaries, including Illinois House Rep. Ms. Diane Blair-Sherlock, DuPage County Sheriff Mr. James Mendrick, and Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta, also addressed the attendees.

The Illinois State Senate issued a Proclamation, presented by Senator Laura Murphy, commemorating the contributions of Pakistani Americans and U.S.-Pakistan relations. The proclamation recognizes “Pakistan’s history of independence” as “a step forward for the cause of freedom,” the role of “Pakistani Americans” as “an integral part of mainstream American society,” and the “leadership and dedication of Consul General of Pakistan in Chicago Tariq Karim,” who has played a “pivotal role in serving the community, fostering bilateral partnerships, and advancing business and people-to-people relations between the two countries.”

Messages of felicitation were also received from several dignitaries, including Congressman Sean Casten, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Michigan State Rep. Ms. Julie Brixie, and Michigan State Senator Sam Singh. These messages recognized the contributions of the Pakistani-American community and the importance of strong bilateral relations.

Consul General Tariq Karim, along with Mrs. Aasma Tariq, Congressman Jonathan Jackson, and other elected officials, cut the Pakistan Day cake.

The event featured a brief cultural segment during which patriotic songs of Pakistan were performed, followed by the serving of traditional Pakistani cuisine after Iftar. The ceremony concluded with prayers for the well-being and prosperity of Pakistan.

Earlier, Consul General Tariq Karim raised the Pakistan flag in Chicago to commemorate the occasion.

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