2008 General Election: 50th Representative District

This race features two people vying to replace retiring State Rep. Patricia Reid Lindner. Kay Hatcher, 62, a Republican, will face Mary Schneider, 47, a Democrat. The 50th District includes most of Kendall County, and portions of Kane and LaSalle counties.

Kay Hatcher
Why are you running for this office?
The wheels have fallen off the wagon in Springfield, and the chaos affects every single resident of our state. I want to bring accountability back to public service. There is no greater responsibility than being trusted by the public to speak on their behalf. I have had the opportunity to do so, and am convinced the process works. Women often take a spiral staircase to leadership. Each step, from scout volunteer and civic association president to school board member, county board member and forest preserve president taught me more strategies and gave me better tools to serve my neighbor. Illinois has always been my home, and as a state representative I would work to ensure that the same opportunities and quality of life I have had will be available for succeeding generations.

More than any other attribute, I bring an understanding of collaboration rather than confrontation. I have grown with the Fox Valley, helping a mixed urban/rural county be transformed into one of the fastest growing regions in America.

I am the only candidate running for state representative with elected office experience.
Service as state president of the Illinois Federation of Republican Women provided me the opportunity to craft true collaborative initiatives. Helping bring thousands of women with very different perspectives to consensus on important issues is a lesson you can only learn though experience.

My professional career spans much of Illinois. As Community and Government Affairs Director for Illinois Bell, I worked with many chambers of commerce and manufacturing associations to target economic development opportunities. Challenges included finding grants for not-for-profits, aiding education outreach and working as liaison with local and state government to grow their technology capabilities. Adaptation to Illinois' constantly changing business environment and market conditions is second nature.

Currently Senior Marketing Director for Senior Services Associates, I work daily to help protect the rights and dignity of our residents over 60 years of age. I understand graphically the healthcare issues affecting the frail, the disabled and the disenfranchised.
These unique professional experiences, like my elected experiences, have helped prepare me to represent 50th District residents in Springfield. More than that, it has prepared me to truly understand how government works from both sides of the coin, and how government action affects businesses, organizations and individuals.

I have cast many votes. Most of the time it's a clear cut decision. Sometimes it is not. I'm not afraid to go up against the so-called experts if I think it is right for my constituents. I understand the ripple effect of every vote, and how it resonates through every part of every person's life.

While not currently a part of the legislative process, I do understand how it works.That's very important with the chaos we see in Springfield today. I've been tested, and I'm ready. With me, there would be no need for a learning curve.

The General Assembly has been unable to reach agreement on changing the school funding formula. Should it be changed? If so, how? What can/should be done to aid schools that don't have a large property-tax base? A blue-ribbon, non partisan panel convened during the Edgar administration defined one very clear fact. Paramount to changing the formula for education funding is the necessity for Chicago to assess property in the same manner the rest of the state does. It's simply not paying its fair share. Local control partnered with a strong, consistent funding mechanism would provide an even learning base.

Additional thoughts on our education system: I think the higher test scores we see coming out of Charter Schools tell us a great deal - a little more flexibility and a little more incentive can go a long way toward making the best and highest use of our education dollar. Targeting funding goes hand in hand with quantified learning. If we test to learn, and reward the teachers who excel, everyone wins; the children, the community and the work environment they will eventually access. It's also important to recognize that learning does not stop at 12th grade. Our community college system, combined with business partnerships, provides the training needed to secure employment and reemployment of the changing workplace.

Local control and local property tax dedication decided by local taxpayers is the real linchpin. Everyone pays taxes to support our public school system. Providing a modest tax credit for those families who chose another route is worth considering. I do not believe a voucher system is appropriate.

Part and parcel of this is an equal responsibility on the part of school boards to evaluate teachers and administrators who should be accountable for our children's education. Our school boards make the decision on pay and benefits. Each community is its own steward of public funds. Equally important are parents who reinforce the value of education at home at a young age. Children mature at different ages. I support the preschool opportunity, but would not mandate it.

Accountability is paramount. Budget transparency between expenditures and outcomes and more charter schools would help. High school proficiency exams would set the bar for graduation, and a core curriculum aligned to academic standards would surely give everyone a better return on investment.

Should the state hold a constitutional convention? Why or why not?I believe crafting changes in the state constitution are better done through amendments rather than wholesale gutting. That being said, I also believe that the issue will succeed on the ballot in November. The process might actually make a bigger mess of things - I'm not at all sure that progress will be made, but it will at least give the public a feeling of being in control of their destiny. The partisanship and obstructionism have simply gone too far. I have never seen so many residents so enraged. It has ceased to become an issue of thoughtful consideration and has become a very potent catalyst for change. Or, perhaps catalyst is too nice a word. Perhaps weapon more clearly reflects the average voter's regard for the way our state is being run. I can't say I blame them.
The change is simple: institute a recall provision. It's really a shame things have gotten this out of control - and the responsibility rests squarely on the shoulders of the folks making decisions in Springfield. They are the masters of their own disaster. It's not the constitution that's out of touch, it's the decision-makers.

With all the power the four legislative leaders possess, how can you be an effective lawmaker? Do you support your party's leader in the House?
House Minority Leader Tom Cross, has clearly been the most effective of the current state leaders. The House of Representatives has 51 Republican members, each of whom brings unique skills and each of whom represents a unique demographic and geography. The structure today includes a Republican Minority Leader, chosen by the other legislators, to drive important issues and reach consensus. hat Leader is aided by a leadership team dedicated to learning what other House members favor. Each individual House Republican makes an individual vote, and does not have his or her hands tied by a political mandate. Unlike the other bodies, Houses Minority Leader Tom Cross has instituted a voluntary Leader term limit, which I think is a VERY healthy philosophy. Too much power, for too long, strangles the initiative of potential leaders, gridlocks the system and reinforces the public's belief that Springfield sometimes does more damage than good. Cross has done a phenomenal job of finding common ground between members of both parties. I believe instituting a leadership term limit for the Majority and Minority Leaders for both the Senate and House would do wonders to clear the air.

Contrary to general thought, the coin of the realm in Springfield is trust, not money. My many years of interaction with our elected officials, at both the professional and public level, jumpstarts my ability to craft meaningful legislation. They know my word is my bond.

How should the state fund a capital construction program?Please allow me to share my perspective on options now being discussed:
Gaming: The 50th District is home to one gaming group (Aurora) and the recipient of community impact dollars of a second (Elgin - Kane County). As a business leader I was able to watch the evolution of the industry in the Fox Valley from the very beginning. The original legislation was specifically designed to aid aging river towns regain economic vitality. Depending on community negotiations, the industry brings both jobs and infrastructure enhancement. Each site has its own unique geographic sphere of influence. There are a finite number of people who enjoy gaming, and my guess is that any new sites would simply dilute the existing clientele, spreading it among more casinos and dropping the revenues of the old facilities. Additional sites would generate funds for Capital Projects, but would they bleed funds from communities now benefiting from revenues? I'm concerned for the welfare of my own district.

The same rules that apply to every gaming facility in the state should also apply to Chicago, should one be established. Talk of overhauling the regulatory board may be an option, but every casino in the state should have the same oversight. I certainly do not believe that government should own a gambling facility. All current licenses holders, once carefully vetted, make huge monetary commitments in their facilities, through their own resources. That's an inappropriate place to put taxpayer dollars. The very process of that investment might sway legislators to vote differently. Sort of like the fox watching the henhouse?

Lottery: When the issue of some type of sale/lease of lottery resources was first discussed for Illinois, my instinct was not to open a significant funding resource to outside influence. My study since then has revealed some tangible details. I subscribe to Governing magazine, a publication that reviews and dissects best practices of elected bodies across America. Some experts suggest that partnering with the private sector in a manner that maximizes revenue through increased marketing has the potential to provide sustainable income. If the state retains ownership, oversight and control, it certainly seems a viable alternative. I would not have supported the recent bill because it did not include either the ability to pay off current debt or specific capital investment uses.

Income Tax: Until there's some semblance of trust between the public and their elected office holders, and demonstrated between varying levels of elected offices, no taxes will be raised even if it is quantified. That's not just me speaking. That's the hundreds and hundreds of people who have reached out to me in the 50th District.

Whatever program is chosen, bring some sunshine into the process. Define the projects early, so everyone has a chance to review them-maybe even suggest partnering to make the funds go further. Do an economic analysis of the project. What's its effect on both the human and physical infrastructure of the region? Post the information openly and electronically. We just might get ideas submitted from our residents that could make the investments even smarter.

Do you favor recall of constitutional officers? Why or why not?Yes. Please see above constitutional convention comments. It works in other states, and it can work here. Time for a little more accountability.

Do you support an expansion of state health care?Small initiatives are beginning to make a change for the better in our health care system. Illinois subsidizes health care for 1 out of every 7 people, 2 out of 3 nursing home residents, and 1 of every 3 children. That cost is visible: we transfer over $1,000,000,000 Medicaid obligations each year to the following year's budget.

In the workplace, huge numbers of small businesses and not-for-profits have discontinued health benefits because of cost. I am a big believer in Health Savings Accounts, which gives individuals more control over their medical expenses, and offering differing levels of benefits (and costs), depending on need. Giving people the option of purchasing their insurance through an affinity group, rather than as a benefit from their employer could dramatically change the way people are insured. Options, ranging from bare bones plans to highly structured, could provide needed respite. The State Chamber of Commerce suggests that children and non-disabled, non-elderly enrollees be switched from Medicaid to managed care.

Legislation continues to address the issue. SB475 capped non-economic damages and controlled malpractice insurance premiums, to stem the flow of doctors leaving Illinois for other states. Small businesses are protected from catastrophic illness rate increases though HB2271, and efficiencies are being pursued in Illinois' Medicaid program. IllinoisCaresRx brings SeniorCare and Circuit Breaker to more seniors of limited income, and KidCare and FamilyCare offer a separate safety net.

Probably the wisest investment for everyone is education and preventative care.

What can be done at the state level to combat gangs and gun-related violence?Like many other issues, it's a combination of funding and resources at many levels that best solves social issues. Each community is different, and each will implement tools provided differently to make a stronger community. I am convinced that we are on the right track, and though progress may be slow, it will ultimately be successful. A combination of aggressive prosecution, community policing, agencies that work within the various diverse populations and state support of programs like Cease Fire will erode gang strength. Education, both formal and word of mouth, is the greatest tool. Our newer residents, especially, have to know we're with them, on every street and in every neighborhood, before they learn to trust law enforcement enough to be a participatory part of making the Fox Valley safer. I have volunteered for Crime Stoppers for many years, and think it is the perfect example of a community organization that chips away at the "don't nark" unwritten rules. Our schools often provide a safe respite and training ground for those children who many not receive strong home support. Programs like Character Counts cost little, and deliver spectacular results.

What would you change about the state's budget and spending habits?Both the philosophy and methodology needs attention:
The budget must be reassessed yearly, in order to accommodate unexpected changes in the economy and public needs. We've seen too many crises that could have been avoided simply by fulfilling previous commitments before adding new programs. Don't spend what you don't have.

State government is supposed to be a system of checks and balances. It seems our Governor simply writes the check regardless of what the bank balance might be. "Found" money from some else's pocket isn't found, it's stolen. Stolen from community commitments already made to improve roads or fund after-school programs. The Governor's attitude reminds me of Popeye's old friend Wimpy. "I'd gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today". Seems to me we're the ones left holding the bag.
Promoting a culture of fiscal restraint is pivotal to lifting our state out of its present financial crisis. Government was never designed to provide all things to all people, and rightly so. One of the strengths of our communities is the way individuals and organizations come together to solve a problem when a need arises. I have witnessed, and participated in, countless fundraisers over the years. Whether it's raising money to save an historic structure, an endangered natural area or a child with serious medical challenges, we always pull together for special, needy projects. Our state must stop making new commitments when the ones already made are not yet funded. We need to get our fiscal house in order. That also includes the most basic requirements of open government. Legislators this year were given only a few hours to review a thousand page state budget before voting. This serves neither the legislator nor the people they represent. The budget should be crafted with ample time for public posting and input.
Our spending habits have somehow become based on the concept that you can tax your way to prosperity. Nothing could be further from the truth. Illinois businesses pay a higher share of total state and local taxes compared to our neighbors [Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Iowa and Wisconsin]. The entire tax system needs to be carefully evaluated to ensure that our state's economic competitiveness remains viable. Small businesses are 95% of Illinois' business economy, and they are the lifeblood of our communities. Half of them can no longer offer health insurance because of skyrocketing costs, further putting them at a disadvantage with large corporations. Those same tax-paying businesses are life-long education drivers, with each of us learning diverse professions through desire or need. We need to partner with business, not bleed them dry.

What are the other issues affecting residents in your district that you'd like to see addressed in Springfield? I want to take the skills acquired in my professional and public careers and apply them to specific legislative committees that address needed changes in Illinois. I'm going there to work, and work hard. Put me where I can do some good.

In today's economic climate, my background in economic development, workforce investment boards, chamber of commerce business growth initiatives and community college advanced training opportunities would all work together to find the most practical, effective solutions to pulling Illinois out of its financial tail spin.
Specific committees resolve specific issues. The deadly cycle of escalating energy costs in all forms is sapping our state and our nation; I would like to serve on Renewable Energy and Ethanol Production Oversight Committees. We must have a strong transportation system to deliver products to market and people to their jobs. Transportation and Mass Transit are a natural. We need to plan better; my years as a zoning and economic development chairman would fit well with both the Smart Growth and Regional Planning Committee and Local Government. Having gone through a number of landfill hearings, my first-hand experience would be important to the Environment and Energy Committee. That would also serve my greatest regional concern; water supply, access, purity and cost. My years of working with the weakest among us would provide a unique perspective for Aging, Health and Healthcare Disparities and Health Care Access Committees. My spouse is a disabled Vietnam veteran. That committee could surely use my perspective. I've seen it happen. One person can make a difference.

Mary Schneider
Why are you running for this office?
I am a committed and active member of my community, and that involvement has led me to politics. I am a member of the Interschool Council of the Batavia Public School District. I have served as the President of the PTO at my children's school; I am a current Advisory Board Member for Chicago Health Connections and I have been an active volunteer for the local and national Democratic Party. As a private citizen, I worked with State Senator Haine to advise and assist him in crafting and passing legislation with the Illinois General Assembly. I have been called upon to lend my expertise in a similar capacity at the Federal level on Capitol Hill with Sen. Obama.
I am well versed with Parliament and procedure of other countries while assisting them in policy decisions to better the lives of their citizens.

All of my experiences, on the local, the state, national and international level, have enabled me to build working relationships with both Democrats and Republicans. I have the ability to work across the aisle to achieve results, rather than blindly adhering to party politics. As State Representative, I will bring that same commitment and work ethic to the issues that matter for this District. My goal is to listen to the needs of the voters, to develop and advocate legislation that will best benefit this District, and to be a strong voice for fiscal responsibility.

The General Assembly has been unable to reach agreement on changing the school funding formula. Should it be changed? If so, how? What can/should be done to aid schools that don't have a large property-tax base?
Ensuring adequate and equal education requires more than just changing the funding formulas or instituting property tax reform. More is needed to close the gap between wealthy and poor districts to make certain that every child has the possibility of a good, well funded education. Illinois needs to move away from a property-tax based system of funding education by closing the gaping tax loopholes of corporations that fail to pay living wages or provide adequate health insurance for their employees. Our local government entities need to exercise greater forethought and accountability with zoning and when "Brick and Mortar" referendums are proposed.

Should the state hold a constitutional convention? Why or why not?
Although it can take years to ratify a new constitution, the wisdom of our Illinois forefathers to include this question on the ballot every 20 years is undisputed. However, in the current economic climate, 78 million dollars to pursue a convention is cost prohibitive when our budget is in a deficit. Constitutional amendments addressing current and some long term concerns would be a better use of time and far more cost effective.

With all the power the four legislative leaders possess, how can you be an effective lawmaker? Do you support your party's leader in the House? Party leaders are aware of my principles and ethics. I have not sought nor accepted their assistance in my campaign for this seat. My goal is to go to Springfield as the voice of the people that have elected me.

How should the state fund a capital-construction program?
Involving an independent time sensitive oversight in this process can provide a system of checks and balances against unnecessary spending by politicians in their districts. This independent group could provide a way to save the state money that can be better spent on education, transportation or health care. As State Representative, I would first ask where the benefit would be from the matching federal dollars. Is it maintaining existing roads and infrastructure that everyone needs or benefiting the privileged few with the sale of blind trust land holdings that profit off the backs of honest citizens? The Prairie Parkway is a prime example of this type of abuse.

Do you favor recall of constitutional officers? Why or why not?
Legal indictments under the terms of the Illinois constitution allows for recall. Making bad political choices does not. Before people cast their vote, they should explore the candidate views and policies to better understand how it will affect them.

Do you support an expansion of state health care?
As a starting point, I will support affordable, quality healthcare for all Illinois citizens such as is proposed in Single Payer Healthcare Bill HB311. This Bill takes a crucial step toward addressing the needs of the approximately 1.7 million citizens' uninsured living in Illinois. Those citizens' lack of health care costs the people of Illinois through lost lives, lost productivity, and higher hospital and doctors bills for all patients to cover the costs of the uninsured. As a matter of public health, the state of Illinois should use its power of regulation over insurance companies to ensure that all citizens have access to quality affordable health care, and that claims are not capriciously denied or delayed by insurance companies, effectively precluding coverage for critically ill citizens.

What can be done at the state level to further combat gangs and gun-related violence?
Federal agencies have been mobilized and are working with local law enforcement to address local gang activity. As the representative of my district, and the large rural area involved, one of my concerns would be to eliminate the manufacture of the illegal substances that contribute to the violence. I look forward to working with the Attorney General in stemming this previously ignored issue in the 50th District that affects the entire state. I would also support 4-H funding, Boys and Girls Clubs and Scouts programs in the community in order to provide youth within the districts plenty of constructive options for their free time.

What would you change about the state's budget and spending habits? Funding repetitive and out dated services hurt everyone on both sides of the aisle. Existing programs need to be addressed, vetted for viability, and dealt with accordingly. Leasing our long term investments for short term cures is not fiscally responsible. Neither is raiding teacher pension funds, just hoping you can catch up on payments later. Illinois has to live within a balanced budget.

What are the other issues affecting residents in your district that you'd like to see addressed in Springfield?
The 50th district relies on water tables and local tributaries for its lifeblood. Current growth demands that the siting process for landfills and the process for treating garbage must be dealt with at the state level sooner rather than later. A U.S. treaty with Canada does not allow water supply from the Great Lakes past DuPage County. Water conservation in the 50th district is paramount to survival. I stand in full support of HB 4426 which will allow Plasma Arc Gasification (a technology that converts landfill waste into electricity) to be used in Illinois. Windmill farms and solar panel arrays could dramatically increase the available clean renewable energy available in the state. I would also support legislation that would give credits to farmers for erecting wind turbines in their fields concurrent with crops. This would serve multiple purposes: providing farmers with additional profitability, especially small farmers; providing economic incentives to maintain farmland; and creating renewable clean energy with minimal environmental impact. Of course, I would also like to see the state pursue more comprehensive renewal energy sources, but wind turbines and solar panel arrays would be a good start to reduce fossil fuel dependence.