5 questions with Republican Caucus candidate Andrea Schultheis Childers

1. What made you want to run?
We’ve lived in St. Joe for the past almost 19 years and it’s been a great place to raise our kids. I’ve been busy in the past with organizations and groups involving my kids (sports, dance, POPCELC, church youth group, etc.) Now they are older (16 and almost 20) which gives me more time to focus on other things that interest me and I’d really like to serve the community.

2. What are the major challenges you believe are facing the village?
I think we’re in a time of change like many small communities. Seeing that the village is making the improvements for the sewer system allows more growth and opportunities. I think we need to find a way to grow the community with both business and residential options. The real challenge is growing options and opportunities without losing the small town feel. Being close to Champaign-Urbana offers people conveniences that many small towns don’t have. The key is bringing people and their money to town for the right reasons.

3. What would be your four year goal for the village?
I’d like to see some businesses that help generate some tax revenue. I think that without bringing other money sources to town we put that burden on our home owners. It’s hard to expect young families to start somewhere they can’t afford. We see all the time people asking on Facebook for a rental or home upcoming available in St. Joe. We need to bring those families with young kids into our community to keep the school system and recreational activities thriving.

4. What should people know about you?
I love living in a small town. I grew up in Southern Illinois but have called St. Joe home for almost 19years. We chose St. Joe because of the safe small town feel, the good school district and the convenience of living close to C-U. Those things St. Joe still has going for it. We just need to highlight and keep that our focus while the community grows.

5. How would your previous experiences benefit the board?
I’ve worked for the Illinois Department of Transportation for 22years. I understand that teamwork and communication are keys to getting things done. I think that it’s important that we not only bring our knowledge and opinions to share but we also need to make sure we are listening to the people around us. I’ve successfully managed multimillion dollar contracts for roadway improvements that were completed without issues due to respecting other’s opinions and being willing to see things from someone else’s perspective.