Election 2011: Jeanne Felten

Editor's note: This is the third in a series of profiles of the seven candidates for the Montgomery Village Board. Each candidate had the opportunity to answer the same questions, but were asked to abide by a 75-word guideline. The answers will be provided here unabridged.

• Position sought: Trustee

• Campaign phone: 630-892-6153 or 630-688-7528

• Age: 58

• Family: One son, Jacob Felten, 26
• Length of Residence: 41 years.

• Education: N/A

• Occupation: Bank branch manager

• Political party affiliation, if any: None provided.

• Previous elected offices: None before Village Board.

• Related experience: I am completing my second term and hope to serve for a third. Prior to being elected to the Village Board I served on Montgomery’s Plan Commission.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

I hope to be able to continue to help Montgomery navigate through these tough economic times and to be able to see the commercial development continue so that areas like Route 30 and Route 34, Orchard Road and Route 30, and the Douglas Road corridor can be completed and attract quality businesses to Montgomery.

What will be your most important priority if you get elected?

Ensuring that Montgomery continues to operate within budget and maintains a balanced budget each year.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

 I am currently serving on the board so am aware of the challenges that Montgomery has faced and what has been done to work through them. I also work in the business community so have an understanding of and experience dealing with business issues. I have also lived in Montgomery for 41 years so have seen it grow over the years and have been a part of mapping that growth.

What's your favorite thing about the village of Montgomery?

Our small-town atmosphere. Even though our population has grown we still are able to maintain that small-town feel. Also, having the Fox River run through our downtown area with its parks and trails.

What is the biggest problem in Montgomery?

Working to improve our image as a “business friendly” community. Also, identifying future sources of funding for capital improvement projects.