From Mike Shorten, candidate for Nunda Township Supervisor:
Nunda Supervisor Candidate Mike “Shorty” Shorten Signs Anti-Nepotism Pledge
Crystal Lake, IL – Mike Shorten, candidate for Nunda Township Supervisor in the February 25, 2025 Republican Primary, has formally committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity by signing an Anti-Nepotism Pledge.
In the pledge, Shorten promises to avoid all forms of nepotism, ensuring transparency and fairness in hiring and purchasing, in direct contrast to the actions of his opponent, incumbent Supervisor Leda Drain, who as one of her first acts upon taking office, hired an immediate family member and then increasing that family members salary 150%.
“What’s even more shocking is that in the most recent township budget, Supervisor Drain increased the budget for her family members position ANOTHER 30%,” Shorten said.
“Combined with her attempt to increase her own salary 25% to $95,000, for a part time job, it’s clear that Supervisor Drain is more focused on self-service, than public service.”
The key promises that Shorten has made are outlined in the pledge, signed on February 5th, 2025:
- No Family Employment: Shorten will not hire any immediate family members for any positions within the township’s administration.
- No Family Contracts: Shorten will not provide any contracts, subcontracts, or work to businesses owned or operated by immediate family members.
- Transparent Hiring Processes: Shorten will ensure all hiring processes are transparent, merit-based, and free from undue influence.
- Ethics in Procurement: Shorten will uphold strict ethical standards in all procurement processes.
- Regular Reporting: Shorten ill provide regular reports to the township’s governing body and the public, detailing compliance with this pledge.
“By signing this pledge, I am affirming my commitment to restoring transparency, fairness, and accountability to the citizens of Nunda Township,” Shorten stated.
Mike “Shorty” Shorten previously served as a Township Trustee in Nunda Township where he fought against unnecessary spending and tax hikes, improved transparency and stopped corruption.
Shorten is in his second term on the McHenry County Board and is focused on delivering effective, cost-efficient governance for the constituents in the 4th District.
Shorten lives in Crystal Lake, where he raised his three adult daughters with his wife of nearly 30 years, Cheryl.
Shorten’s candidacy is endorsed by several community leaders, including McHenry County Board Chairman Mike Buehler, County Board Members Pam Althoff and Terri Greeno.
Additionally Shorten has been endorsed by the Nunda Township Republican Central Committee and International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150.
