A press release from Grafton Township Assessor candidate Al Zielinski:
Alan Zielinski, candidate for Grafton Township Assessor, promises a clean office
LAKEWOOD, IL (February 19, 2013) – Alan Zielinski, candidate for Grafton Township Assessor, wants to make sure taxpayers’ dollars get the highest return on their investment.
No more nepotism.
“I’m a huge believer in and supporter of family businesses and even grew-up in one: my Dad’s general contracting business.
The issue is when the ‘family business’ is financed with taxpayer dollars as was the case with the incumbent’s family. Unlike the incumbent, I will not spend taxpayer dollars hiring any related parties.” said Zielinski.
The incumbent assessor took office 1/1/90. Township records show because he didn’t speak with or ask them to stay, two experienced deputy assessors left hurting the efficiency of the office.
Township records show a month later the incumbent hired his wife and one daughter. He later hired his other daughter. The incumbent’s wife was the highest paid hourly employee and all family members received benefits at taxpayers’ expense.
Between 1/1/06 and 12/31/12 alone, township records show the incumbent’s wife and two daughters accounted for nearly a quarter of the assessor office’s payroll: 21% of the taxpayers’ dollars went to family members!
“That will not happen on my watch.” said Zielinski. “My hiring preferences are current employees, appraisers, Veterans, handicapped and all other qualified individuals.
The critical issue for everyone in the assessor’s office is to be properly motivated. Properly motivated means dedicated to honesty, accuracy, conformity with state and federal valuation statutes/guidelines, customer service, an exemplary work ethic and focused on the common good of Grafton Township’s residents and businesses.”
No more favoritism.
The incumbent assessor’s preferential treatment extended beyond nepotism. Public records indicate the incumbent treated his personal parcel differently than how the township fared.
• In 2009, the incumbent’s personal parcel assessment saw no change but Grafton Township increased 3%!
• In 2011, the incumbent’s personal parcel assessment decreased 24% but Grafton Township increased 4%!
Public records show the incumbent’s huge reduction in 2011 was because he personally appealed his own assessment. “It would be amusing if it wasn’t so serious.” quipped Zielinski.
“When elected, Grafton taxpayers have my word I’ll do my best to treat everyone fairly and with respect. Whether you own residential, industrial or commercial property in Grafton Township, your assessment will be impartial regardless of ownership.” Zielinski promised.