Mark Gaffino

On the Record

What experiences do you have that make you a good candidate for office?

Just finishing my 2nd term, I bring Village knowledge of the business we are currently involved in. Prior to Being a Trustee , I was Chairman of the Police Commission and Also a former member of the Planning commission. Operating my own Landscaping business , I bring a common sense business approach to issues. I am involved in the Lions Club, coach Baseball, work through out the Village. I feel I have a good pulse on Village issues and communicate well to the residents.

What are your top three priorities if elected?

My top Priority is to bring in commercial businesses and residential build outs while supporting the Villages existing Business. Work closely with Developers to understand their needs while meeting the needs of the Village residents. #2. Keep our taxes reasonable while providing outstanding Village services. Supporting the Commercial Development to reduce the tax burden of our Residents. #3. Keep supporting our infrastructure program... improving our roadways and sidewalks throughout the Village.

Would you support freezing your taxing district’s levy until housing prices rebound? Why or why not?

I don’t favor raising taxes , however with the Tax Levy if you don’t use it for the year , you cant get it back. Its based off the cost of living, if for instance we assume we are going to have a great sales tax year and cut back on our levy and the year is not what we thought it would be, the next year we cant catch up and get the funding we need or that we lost. And the end result could be to cut back on Village services. So in this instance its the only option.

What one decision by the village board do you most disagree with and why?

I am satisfied with the Village Board decisions.

What was the biggest accomplishment of the board in the past year?

Lots of GREAT accomplishments this year!....Though it may take more than a year to suggest, organize, and get results. We are fortunate to have a Board that works together to get things done. We may disagree , but at the end of the day we want to do what’s best for the Residents. I feel the remodel of the Village hall was a great endeavor. It took a outdated building and turned it into a current , safe , efficient environment for the staff as well as the residents. We also hired a Community Development Director who will do a Outstanding job in that area.

Why should voters elect you to office?

Just finishing my second term I bring experience to the Board also serving on the Planning Commission and former Police commission Chair person. I’m also the Chairperson of the North Aurora Days Event. . I’m a Life long resident to North Aurora have seen it in its infancy to its current state. I’m a local Business person who brings my business skills to the board along with common sense approach to all the various challenges we face. I’m dedicated to the Villages residents to work hard for them. I’m involved in many areas within the Village and feel that I stay well connected with the residents and feel that I am approachable to hear their concerns, communication is key. I love North Aurora and would do anything for it as well as the residents. I cant imagine living any place else.