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Joliet Park District Board of Commissioners candidate Joe Clement submitted this questionnaire, answering The Herald-News' questions about the 2017 park board race.
Name: Joe Clement
Political party: Non-Partisan
Age: 46
Address: 1315 Tiger Lily Lane, Joliet, IL 60435
Marital status: Married
Significant other: Stacey Clement
Profession: Police Officer - Detective
Employer: City of Joliet
Email address: joe@joeforjoliet.com
Website: www.joeforjoliet.com
Children: Haylie, Hannah, and Carsyn
Education: Coal City High School
Why are you running for the Joliet Park District Board of Commissioners?
I am running because I will bring a new perspective to the park district while still supporting the district residents, director, board members, management, and staff.
What are your qualifications to serve as a park board member?
As a 24 year veteran Police Officer I have had the opportunity to build relationships throughout the community as a Patrol Officer, Joliet Central Liaison Officer, and Neighborhood Policing Officer. I am currently the Vice President of the Joliet F.O.P. Lodge 58, Secretary of the Joliet Police Welfare Association, and a committee member for Sportsmen for Charity where we have raised over $1.1 million dollars for local charities.
What are the greatest challenges the district is facing in the coming years?
The greatest challenges for the park district are capital improvements and Splash Station while maintaining the current infrastructure.
If elected, what will be your top three priorities?
If elected, my top 3 priorities would be the implementation of park police patrol. I believe the parks and facilities should be patrolled by sworn police officers during peak seasonal hours to keep families safe. Secondly, I would follow through with the commitments made for an eastside facility. Lastly, I would encourage more kids in the community to utilize the programs and facilities the park district has to offer. I believe when kids are involved in programs they are more likely to succeed in life.