Democrats United Calumet City 2025

Bringing honesty and transparency back to city hall is just the beginning. Once our team gets to work on tackling the issues, we are going to make our residents once again proud to say they're from Calumet City.

<h3>Fighting for Our Community</h3>These are some of the top issues our campaign is focused on. Learn more about our issues <a href="/issues" target="" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">here</a>.

Our Top Issues

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To revitalize Calumet City and return it to its former glory as the beacon of the Southland, strategic steps must be taken to reverse the economic decline and attract businesses once more. Hiring a top-notch, qualified, and proven Economic Development Director is a critical first move. This leader should have a track record in economic development, showcasing success in similar communities - in particular communities similar to ours. Once appointed, the administrator will focus on several key initiatives:1. Economic Assessment and Planning: Conduct a thorough analysis of the city's current economic situation, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Develop a comprehensive economic development plan that aligns with the city's long term strategic plan, leveraging its unique assets and addressing its specific challenges with special attention paid to River Oaks Mall and River Oaks West. 2. Business Incentives: Create attractive incentive packages to lure new businesses and retain existing ones. These could include tax abatements, subsidies, grants, or low-interest loans aimed at encouraging renovations, new constructions, or expansions.3. Community Engagement: Involve local stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and community leaders, in decision-making processes. Engagement fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that development efforts reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.4. Partnerships and Collaborations: Forge partnerships with local and regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to pool resources and expertise. Collaboration can amplify efforts and yield innovative solutions.5. Marketing and Branding: Develop a robust marketing strategy to promote Calumet City as an attractive destination for businesses. Highlight its strategic location, and available workforce.6. Small Business Support: Provide resources and support for local entrepreneurs and small businesses. This might include business development workshops, mentoring programs, and access to capital.By strategizing on these fronts, Calumet City can rejuvenate its commercial corridors, create new job opportunities, and restore its status as a vibrant economic hub in the Southland.

Calumet City used to be the shining star of the Southland, but over the years businesses have left and never returned. Driving around you see vacant storefronts and boarded up windows. We need to prioritize economic development by hiring a top-notch, qualified, proven administrator - someone who will be our biggest cheerleader and bring much needed development back to our commercial corridors.

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

Economic Development

The residential real estate market in Calumet City is facing significant challenges, largely attributed to bureaucratic hurdles and complicated processes within city departments that deter potential homeowners and investors. To stimulate recovery in this sector, it is crucial to reimagine and reform the Building Department, aligning it with the needs of residents and prospective homebuyers.Strategies for Reimagining the Building Department:1. Streamlined Processes: Simplify and modernize the permitting process for buying and selling homes. This could involve reducing the number of required permits, establishing clear guidelines, and employing technology to facilitate applications and track progress. A user-friendly online platform can significantly reduce wait times and streamline communication.2. Customer Service Orientation: Train city staff to adopt a customer-centric approach. Encouraging a culture of helpfulness and responsiveness can greatly improve the experience for residents navigating the real estate process. Implementing a “one-stop shop” concept where residents can access all necessary services and information in one place can enhance convenience.3. Transparent Communication: Establish clear communication channels to keep residents informed of changes, processes, and updates regarding housing and real estate. Regular workshops or community forums can provide valuable information and build trust with the community.4. Incentives for Homebuyers: Explore incentives for potential residents, such as first-time homebuyer grants or reduced fees for inspections and permits. These incentives can attract new families to the community and stimulate demand in the housing market.5. Collaboration with Real Estate Professionals: Engage with local real estate agents, developers, and mortgage brokers to gather input and recommendations for improving the home buying and selling process. Their firsthand experience can help identify pain points and opportunities for enhancement.6. Focus on Housing Rehabilitation: Develop programs that support the rehabilitation of existing homes, especially in aging neighborhoods. This could include partnerships with non-profit organizations that specialize in home restorations, making it financially accessible for current homeowners and fostering community pride.7. Promoting Community Development: Strengthening the housing stock contributes to broader community development goals. A stable housing market can lead to enhanced economic development, as attractive neighborhoods draw in businesses and families alike. Furthermore, improved housing conditions often correlate with better public safety and enhanced educational outcomes for local schools.Reinventing the Building Department will have wide-ranging benefits. A strong housing market can attract new residents, spur economic growth, and improve public services. As home values stabilize and rise, the city can experience increased property tax revenues, which can be reinvested into community initiatives and improvement projects.By prioritizing a responsive and efficient Building Department, Calumet City can lay the foundation for a thriving residential real estate market, fostering community growth and enhancing the quality of life for all its residents.

The residential real estate market in Calumet City has taken a hit in recent years, due in part to the red tape and cumbersome processes in dealing with city departments to buy or sell a home.We need to reimagine our Building Department to make it work for our residents, and future residents.A strong housing stock drives stronger economic development, better schools, and increased public safety.

Housing Stock

Calumet City, founded in 1893, stands as a testament to the rich history of the Southland. However, like many municipalities of its age, the city faces significant infrastructure challenges that must be addressed to ensure the safety and quality of life for its residents. The critical state of our roads, sewers, water mains, and overall aesthetic appeal has become increasingly apparent, especially highlighted by the historic flooding event in September 2023 that exacerbated existing issues within our aging sewer system.Strategies for Infrastructure Improvement:1. Comprehensive Infrastructure Assessment: Conduct a thorough evaluation of all critical infrastructure, including roads, sewer systems, and water mains. This assessment should identify urgent repair needs, prioritize projects based on criticality and potential impact, and establish a baseline for future upgrades.2. Capital Improvement Plan: Develop a detailed capital improvement plan that outlines the necessary upgrades, funding sources, and timelines for infrastructure projects. This plan should reflect both immediate corrective measures and long-term sustainability objectives.3. Invest in Stormwater Management: Enhance the city’s stormwater management systems to mitigate flooding risks. This can include upgrading existing sewers, installing permeable pavements, creating retention ponds, and investing in green infrastructure solutions that help absorb rainwater.4. Seek State and Federal Funding: Actively pursue grants and funding from state and federal agencies dedicated to infrastructure improvement. Programs such as the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provide opportunities for municipalities to secure financial resources for necessary projects.5. Public-Private Partnerships: Explore opportunities for public-private partnerships to leverage additional resources and expertise for infrastructure development. Collaborating with local businesses and utility companies can lead to innovative solutions and funding avenues.6. Community Involvement and Education: Engage residents in discussions about infrastructure needs and projects. Community meetings can provide a platform for residents to express concerns, offer insights, and participate in decision-making processes. Educating the public about the importance of infrastructure upgrades can foster support for funding initiatives.7. Focus on Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: Alongside essential repairs, prioritize enhancements to the city's overall curb appeal. Initiatives such as planting trees, installing new streetlights, improving sidewalks, and creating community green spaces can rejuvenate the area and attract residents and businesses alike.8. Monitor and Maintain Infrastructure: Implement a proactive maintenance plan for all infrastructure to extend the lifespan of assets. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and maintenance schedules ensure that systems remain functional and safe, preventing minor issues from escalating into significant problems.Long-Term Benefits:Investing in infrastructure improvements will have lasting benefits for Calumet City. A reliable sewer and drainage system will help prevent future flooding, protect property values, and enhance public safety. Well-maintained roads and public spaces contribute to a higher quality of life, improved accessibility, and increased community pride.Addressing the infrastructure challenges facing Calumet City is vital for ensuring the city's vitality and sustainability in the future. By taking a strategic and comprehensive approach to upgrading roads, sewers, and water systems, we can create a stronger foundation for growth, enhance community resilience, and ultimately foster a thriving environment for residents and businesses alike.

Calumet City was founded in 1893; like many others in the Southland we are starting to show our age.Our roads, sewers, water mains, and overall curb appeal need a massive upgrade.In September of 2023, we experienced historic flooding which was made even worse by our aging and neglected sewer system.

Infrastructure Updates

Attracting individuals to careers in public safety has become increasingly challenging in today’s world. The combination of a competitive job market, changing perceptions of public service roles, and the significant number of retirements within both the Police and Fire Departments has created strains on staffing levels. Consequently, these departments often find themselves relying heavily on overtime to meet minimum operational needs, leading to increased costs and potential burnout among existing personnel.Strategies to Address Staffing Challenges in Public Safety:1. Enhanced Recruitment Strategies: Develop targeted recruitment campaigns that highlight the benefits of careers in public safety, emphasizing job stability, community impact, and opportunities for career advancement. Utilizing social media, local events, and partnerships with schools and community organizations can help raise awareness and interest in these career paths.2. Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Evaluate and adjust compensation packages to ensure they are competitive with other career options available in the region. Consider additional benefits such as mental health resources, retirement planning, and educational reimbursement, which can make public safety positions more attractive to potential candidates.3. Community Engagement and Education: Engage with the community to build a positive perception of public safety careers. Initiatives could include open houses, ride-alongs, and community safety workshops, allowing residents to interact with officers and firefighters, fostering interest in these professions.4. Internship and Cadet Programs: Implement internship or cadet programs that allow high school and college students to gain exposure to public safety careers. These programs can provide valuable hands-on experience and serve as a pipeline for future recruitment.5. Prioritizing Diversity and Inclusion: Focus on fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the community it serves. Initiatives aimed at underrepresented groups can create a more inclusive environment and encourage a wider range of candidates to consider careers in public safety.6. Support for Existing Personnel: Addressing staffing shortages also requires supporting current personnel. Establishing wellness programs, mental health resources, and incentives for existing employees can enhance job satisfaction and retention, reducing the pressure on new recruits to fill gaps.Long-Term Implications:By adopting a multifaceted approach to recruitment and retention, public safety departments can significantly improve their staffing levels while reducing the need for costly overtime. A well-staffed and supported workforce will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of both the Police and Fire Departments, ultimately leading to improved community safety and a stronger public trust.Addressing the challenges facing public safety careers involves a comprehensive strategy that not only attracts new talent but also supports existing personnel, ensuring that departments can effectively serve the community’s needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

In today's world, it's becoming harder and harder to attract individuals to careers in public safety.Coupled with numerous retirements in both our Police and Fire Departments over the last few years, our public safety departments are struggling at times to maintain minimum staffing without spending huge sums of money on overtime.

Public Safety

In order to foster a transparent, accountable, and effective government, it’s crucial to ensure that local administration operates with integrity and prioritizes the public good over personal affiliations. In Calumet City, as in many municipalities, there is a pressing need to realign hiring practices and expenditure policies to focus on merit, qualifications, and responsible financial management.Strategies to Enhance Government Integrity and Accountability:1. Merit-Based Hiring Policies: Establish and enforce hiring practices that prioritize qualifications and experience over personal relationships. Implement structured interview processes, standardized evaluation criteria, and require comprehensive job descriptions to ensure fairness and consistency.2. Transparent Recruitment Processes: Increase transparency in the hiring process by publicly posting job openings and detailing the qualifications required for each position. Consider forming a hiring committee comprised of diverse stakeholders to provide oversight and help evaluate candidates impartially.3. Conflict of Interest Policies: Enact strict conflict of interest policies that prohibit hiring or contracting with individuals who have familial or personal connections to current officials. Ensuring accountability can help restore public trust in the government.4. Regular Audits and Oversight: Implement regular audits of hiring practices and financial spending to ensure compliance with established policies. Independent oversight committees can enhance accountability and help identify areas that require improvement.5. Training and Development Programs: Invest in training and development for existing staff to ensure that employees are well-equipped to fulfill their roles. Through ongoing professional development opportunities, the government can build a skilled and competent workforce dedicated to serving the community.6. Clear Financial Management Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines for the expenditure of taxpayer dollars, ensuring that funds are allocated only for relevant municipal matters. All spending decisions should be publicly documented with justifications that align with the city’s goals and priorities.7. Community Engagement and Feedback: Solicit input from community members on government operations, hiring practices, and budget allocations. Public forums, surveys, and community engagement initiatives can help ensure that the government remains responsive to the needs and concerns of its constituents.8. Promote Civic Education and Involvement: Educate residents about the importance of holding government accountable and encourage them to participate in local governance. By fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry, the government becomes more responsive to the needs and values of its community.Long-Term Outcomes:By prioritizing qualified personnel and ensuring responsible spending, Calumet City can build a more effective and efficient government that serves the interests of its residents. Implementing these strategies will restore public trust, enhance transparency, and improve the overall quality of services provided to the community.A commitment to integrity in hiring and responsible fiscal management will not only strengthen the local government but also foster a sense of community pride and engagement. By returning to policies that emphasize merit and accountability, Calumet City can better serve its residents and ensure that public resources are utilized for the benefit of all.

Units of government were not created to be used for personal financial gain or hiring programs for unqualified friends, family, and political associates. Calumet City is no different, and we need to return to policies of old where hiring is based on experience and qualifications, and spending of tax dollars is for relevant municipal matters only.

Reform

The actions taken by the current administration in 2021 regarding the Library Board and the management of the library have raised significant concerns about the commitment to public service and the essential role libraries play in the community. Libraries serve as vital centers for knowledge, resources, and community engagement, and the sudden changes drastically undermine their intended purpose.Strategies to Restore the Library's Role in the Community:1. Reestablish the Library Board: Immediately reinstate a fully functional Library Board composed of diverse members who represent various sectors of the community, prioritizing individuals with experience in library science, education, or community service. This board should operate independently and be tasked with guiding the library’s direction and policies.2. Rehire Qualified Library Staff: Work to reinstate the highly qualified Library Director and other experienced staff members who understand the needs of the community. These leaders can help revitalize library services and ensure that professional standards are met.3. Inventory and Replenish Library Resources: Conduct a thorough inventory of the remaining library collection and assess what resources have been lost. Develop a plan for acquiring new books, multimedia resources, and technology that align with community interests and learning needs. Engaging with community members to gather input on desired materials can guide these efforts.4. Community Engagement Initiatives: Reconnect the library with the community by hosting events, workshops, and programs that invite residents to use the library as a space for learning and collaboration. Activities such as author talks, literacy programs, art exhibits, and technology training can enhance the library’s role as a community hub.5. Promote Library Services: Launch a marketing campaign to raise awareness about the library's services and resources. Highlight the importance of libraries in providing access to information, research assistance, and educational programs, underscoring their value to the community.6. Advocate for Funding and Support: Seek additional funding opportunities through grants, partnerships with local businesses, and community fundraising efforts. Increased financial support can enable the library to expand services and improve facilities.7. Measure Impact and Gather Feedback: Implement systems to gather feedback from library users regarding programming, services, and materials. Regularly assessing community needs and interests can help tailor offerings and ensure that the library continues to meet its mission.Long-Term Implications:Restoring the library to its rightful place as a cornerstone of the community will have significant benefits. A vibrant library system not only enhances educational opportunities but also fosters a sense of community, promotes literacy, and supports personal and professional development. By taking strategic steps to reestablish the integrity and functionality of the library, Calumet City can revitalize an essential public resource that serves as a center for knowledge, innovation, and community engagement. Prioritizing transparency, community input, and professional expertise will help ensure that the library embodies its critical role in supporting education and lifelong learning for all residents.

In 2021, the current administration abruptly removed all members of the Library Board and replaced them with friends, family, and political associates. The highly qualified Library Director was removed, along with most of the books in the library. Today, you're more likely to be able to rent the library as a private venue space than to use it as a place to read, research, or learn.

Restore our library

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“I never aspired to be the Mayor of Calumet City. I have a career and a family that I love, but I'm honestly afraid that Calumet City cannot afford four more years of this administration." - Alderman JR Patton, Candidate for Mayor

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Meet our Democrats United 2025 team!

Fighting for Calumet City!

Candidate for mayor

James "JR" Patton

calumet city city clerk

Dr. Nyota T. Figgs

candidate for calumet city city treasurer

Aradia Clark

Calumet city 1st ward alderman

Michael Navarrete

Calumet city 2nd ward alderwoman

Monet S. Wilson

Calumet city 5th ward alderman

DeJuan Gardner

candidate for calumet city 6th ward alderwoman

Dr. Garnadette Stuckey

candidate for calumet city 7th ward alderwoman

Melissa Phillips

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Policy over politics!