• home
• Chuck's blog
• about Chuck Brown
• the issues
• friend me on Facebook
• contact me

The Issues

What is the biggest issue in this race?

Besides the need to ensure adequate funding to maintain quality facilities and services, the park district must be linked to the needs and desires of its constituents. The district has done a respectable job in needs assessment through surveys, but there must be an ongoing dialogue with all segments of the community to make sure the needs of the people are aligned with the resources and programs of the district.

One of the biggest problems in the U.S. right now is that people need to learn how to talk to each other. The same is true of the district. Its own survey of residents last year pointed to a need to better communicate its value to taxpayers, and to promote its programs and services. As a professional communicator for more than 30 years, this is an area where I feel I can make a difference.

Why am I running for office?

The Rockford Park District is one of this community's true gems, contributing to our quality of life and community and economic development. As a user of park district facilities, I feel obliged to give back to the district by putting my public service and administrative skills to work for the people.

My goal is to work hard, give thoughtful consideration to the issues, and serve the taxpayers.

Why you should vote for me:

First, I believe my 16 years experience on a city council with service on the parks & recreation committee would be an asset to the board. That experience includes drafting ordinances, negotiating contracts, personnel decisions, bidding and awarding contracts, communicating with constituents, and intergovernmental cooperation.

Second, I have already demonstrated my commitment and hard work on behalf of the community by putting my skills to work as PR chair of the successful "Connecting Your Future" campaign for a $10 million expansion of the Burpee and Discovery Center museums; by leading the Northwest Community Center board of directors for five years; by service on the Careers Etc. board of directors, and by my service on various committees of the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, including the business retention and attraction solutions team. Beyond this, my communication and administrative skills would be an asset to the park district board, especially in an era when taxpayers want to know what they're getting for their investment.

Issues Facing the Park District	About Chuck Brown	Community Involvement	Strategic Initiatives	Why I'm Running