Judy Fiske, 77, is seeking a fourth term as Evanston’s 1st Ward alderman.
Fiske, who owns a home at 2319 Sherman Ave., is a former real estate broker and retail business owner.
She and challenger Clare Kelly were interviewed about their views on major issues by Evanston Now’s Jeff Hirsh.
Fiske also offered the following information on her background and what she seeks as the key issues in the campaign in response to an Evanston Now questionnaire.
Background
I have served the community in many capacities, including president of the Preservation League of Evanston, trustee of the Evanston Historical Society, co-editor of the City’s Preservation News, co-author of the Northeast Evanston Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places, founder of Friends of The Georgian, member of the Kendall College Task Force, and member of the Police Services Advisory Board.
I sold real estate in Chicago and Evanston for almost 20 years, and for 10 years, I was co-owner of a local pet supply company, Fit + Frisky!, on Davis Street in Downtown Evanston.
My first job out of college was working for an urban planning firm specializing in downtown revitalization, zoning and land use.
I quickly recognized the importance of balancing the need for new revenue through smart development while at the same time maintaining a community’s unique character and identity, and that became the focus of my work in the community and led to my interest in running for City Council.
Key issues
This is a time of incredible transition, and our city faces new challenges as we seek to rebuild our community and care for those throughout the city hardest hit by the pandemic.
The 1st Ward includes a good portion of the downtown where businesses have suffered, and while the city and its partners have worked hard to support our local small shops and restaurants, not all will survive.
Tax revenue to the city has fallen dramatically, and tough budget decisions will have to be made.
As I mentioned before, we must identify new sources of revenue to rebuild the city’s reserves so we are better prepared for whatever comes next, and to maintain the city’s bond rating and lower the interest we pay on those bonds.
Just as importantly, we have a relatively young city staff that needs the wisdom and support of experienced leaders.
I have shared my vision and ideas with the Council for meaningful ways to increase revenue so we can avoid raising fees and fines on Evanston’s residents, and I will continue to do so.
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