Brett believes that municipalities that have a future vision will be more successful than those that accept what comes along.
The best way to predict the future is to create it yourself. - Abraham Lincoln
BRETT'S CONTINUED PRIORITIES
BUSINESS ATTRACTION AND RETENTION
Crystal Lake has been successful in helping existing businesses expand as well as attracting new businesses, through the use of creative incentives. Brett strives to be proactive in attracting new businesses by utilizing a combination of tools, technology, and creative marketing techniques to showcase the important demographic information that potential businesses find attractive. Crystal Lake's economic execution, population stability, and school district performance are all important factors that influence the caliber of the workforce that continues to make Crystal Lake a "Good Place to Live and Work." For the past several years, Crystal Lake has reaped the benefits of these programs that Brett has supported.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Brett will continue to support a culture of spending control which has resulted in Crystal Lake's portion of a property owner's tax bill being amongst the lowest when compared to surrounding communities. Only 11% of the property tax bill is attributed to municipal services, yet through sound practices that Brett promotes, it still provides the highest quality of amenities for the citizens. Brett is committed to providing fiscally sound services, programs, and facilities for all the citizens of Crystal Lake with a keen eye for efficiency so that the high quality of life that citizens and businesses experience today can be enjoyed for years to come.
COLLABORATION
Rather than governing through a single lens or political agenda, Brett understands that collaboration between the citizens, the City Council, and the City Staff is the key component to creating a vibrant community. For the past 16 years, this spirit of collaboration has been at the forefront so that individuals with varying disciplines, experiences, and interests work together through healthy debate with a shared telescope - to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Crystal Lake. Brett recognizes that collaboration brings greater success and accomplishment than could otherwise be achieved individually.
ECONOMIC GROWTH - VISION
We live in a rapidly changing world, and the post-pandemic economy is reshaping the way we work, live, and shop in Crystal Lake. Communities that can adapt to this changing environment will have a competitive advantage, while those that do not prepare for the future will decline. Brett understands that successful communities work to define a sustainable future blueprint because those that do so are always more successful than communities that leave their future to chance. Plans to revitalize vacant areas within Crystal Lake are just now being developed through innovative mixed-use development. Brett has been an advocate for these types of uses because of the changing demographics of Crystal Lake - specifically the demand for high-quality, compact walkable communities located next to desirable amenities. Most recently, properties like the "old Walmart" and the corner of Crystal Lake Avenue and Main Street are being tagged for this type of development. Brett respects Crystal Lake's unique small-town values, historic character, scenic beauty, and sense of community, yet balances the charm of Crystal Lake with a smart, sustainable, and prosperous economy.