The Naperville Sun asked each of the candidates running for the Naperville City Council in the April 1, 2025, election to complete a biographical form and to answer questions about four issues facing the city.
Below are their answers. They are posted in the order in which they were received them and appear as written by the candidates. If a candidate is not listed here, their questionnaire has not yet been returned.
There are eight candidates seeking four, four-year council terms. Three are incumbents: Benny White, Jennifer Bruzan Taylor and Ian Holzhauer. (Incumbent Paul Leong did not run for reelection.) The challengers are Meghna Bansal, Derek McDaniel, Mary Gibson, Nag Jaiswal and Ashfaq Syed.
DEREK McDANIEL
Age: 37
Address: 1019 Kennesaw Ct.
Marital status: Married
Children’s ages (if applicable):
Education: B.A. from Purdue University, M.B.A. – Concentration in Corporate Finance from DePaul University
Occupation: Financial Advisor
Employer: Benjamin F. Edwards
Current elected office, if applicable:
Previous elected office:
Civic or social service group membership or community volunteer work:
- Two-Term Naperville Planning & Zoning Commissioner
- Board member on Naperville CAPS(Citizens Appreciate Public Safety)
- Former Board member of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, Naperville Heritage Society, & NCTV17.
- Former member on Naperville’s Downtown Advisory Committee (DAC)
1. Naperville’s contract with its current electricity provider, the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency, expires in 2035. What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
Naperville stands at a crossroads regarding its energy future. With our contract with the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) expiring in 2035, this is a pivotal opportunity to reimagine how we power our city for decades to come.
Our energy strategy must prioritize affordability for residents while accelerating our transition toward sustainable energy sources. Naperville’s current reliance on coal-generated electricity presents challenges, both environmentally and financially. The IMEA’s proposed contract extension through 2055 raises legitimate concerns about locking our city into a less adaptive energy model.
I support the recent decision to bring in an energy consultant to evaluate our options. Their expertise will guide us in identifying cost-effective, innovative, and environmentally responsible solutions. It’s essential to incorporate competitive market analysis and advancements in energy technologies, such as battery storage & peak shaving, as we consider alternatives.
As we navigate these decisions, Naperville must retain an element of autonomy over its energy choices. By doing so, we can ensure that future contracts align with the values and priorities of our community. Flexibility will be key, allowing us to adapt to emerging technologies and energy markets rather than committing to long-term agreements that could limit our options.
Finally, I believe transparency and community engagement are essential as we chart this path. Naperville residents deserve a voice in shaping the future of our energy supply.
Our energy decisions today will define Naperville’s environmental and economic legacy for generations. With a thoughtful, informed approach, we can secure a clean, affordable, and resilient energy future for our city.
2. In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
Naperville must continue to diversify its housing stock to ensure our community remains welcoming and accessible to new families looking to plant roots here, as well as to older residents who wish to stay in the city they’ve helped shape. Affordable housing is a critical piece of that equation, but it must be approached in a way that aligns with Naperville’s values and priorities.
I believe the city should encourage the development of ADUs. These provide a flexible and cost-effective way to increase affordable housing options while blending seamlessly into established neighborhoods. ADUs can serve as homes for aging parents, adult children, or renters, and they contribute to a more diverse housing landscape.
While the Affordable Housing Incentive Program (AHIP) outlines some creative solutions, there are key elements I believe are not in Naperville’s best interest. For instance:
- Resale Price Caps: The resale price cap on “affordable homes for purchase” may unintentionally discourage homeowners from investing in their properties and building equity. Homeownership has long been a cornerstone of financial security, and policies that limit wealth-building opportunities could deter participation in the program.
- “By-Right” Approval Process: I oppose the “by-right” approval process outlined in the AHIP plan. It’s vital that residents have a voice in proposed developments that impact their neighborhoods. Public input and oversight by elected and appointed officials ensure transparency, accountability, and decisions that reflect the community’s collective interests.
Incentives can be a valuable tool to encourage developers to include affordable housing in their projects. However, they must be carefully crafted to align with Naperville’s goals and preserve the quality of life our residents expect. Incentive programs should be transparent, equitable, and tied to clear, measurable outcomes.
Ultimately, addressing affordable housing requires collaboration among residents, developers, and city leadership. We must ensure that policies encourage responsible growth while protecting the character of our community. By doing so, we can create a Naperville that remains vibrant, inclusive, and livable for generations to come.
3. In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEI programs? Should the city continue to support DEI efforts?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are important principles for ensuring that Naperville remains a welcoming and vibrant community for all. Having policies in place at the city level to encourage diversity and inclusion is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity for everyone who lives, works, or visits our city.
However, I believe it’s prudent to first evaluate the effectiveness of our current DEI initiatives. We need to thoroughly review the department’s impact and understand which policies have been implemented and how they’ve contributed to measurable outcomes. This assessment will help us identify what’s working, where improvements may be needed, and ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used responsibly and effectively.
4. Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
At this time, I’m not convinced that prioritizing the redevelopment of the land surrounding the Fifth Avenue train station is in Naperville’s best interest. This area has long been a family friendly neighborhood, complete with a park where kids play and a strong sense of community. Any potential redevelopment must carefully consider how it would impact the character of the area and the residents who call it home.
Before any decisions are made, it’s essential to thoroughly review the options and feasibility study that is expected to come before the City Council in the coming months. This analysis will provide critical insight into what’s possible and practical for the site.
While this could be an appealing location to add retail or restaurants, I have concerns about their long-term viability. Many commuters prioritize heading straight home after work, which may limit the success of businesses in this area. Redevelopment plans should reflect realistic expectations of how the space will be used and whether it can truly serve the community effectively.
As for the city’s role in funding, I believe any redevelopment effort must be approached with fiscal responsibility. Public-private partnerships could be explored, but the city’s financial contribution should be carefully evaluated to ensure taxpayers are not burdened with unnecessary risks or costs. Ultimately, any investment must provide clear, tangible benefits for Naperville residents.
In short, the Fifth Avenue area is a unique and valuable asset for our city. If redevelopment moves forward, it should be done thoughtfully, with input from the community and a focus on preserving the neighborhood’s character while addressing practical and economic considerations.
IAN HOLZHAUER
Age: 42
Address: 336 Redbud Dr.
Marital Status: Separated
Children’s Ages: 16, 14, 13, 9
Education: JD, Georgetown University (magna cum laude), 2007; BA, History, University of Florida (summa cum laude), 2004; Naperville North High School Class of 2001
Occupation: Attorney
Employer: Campbell Holzhauer Concierge Law, Ltd., Naperville, IL
Current Elected Office: Naperville City Council
Previous Elected Office: None
Civic/Social Group Membership: Founding member and Board Member of Naperville Seniors Non-Profit Group; Prior Board Chair, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce; Riverwalk Commissioner; Member, First Congregational UCC of Naperville
What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
I envision a future powered by a fair contract for the people of Naperville, which includes a more future-focused and fiscally responsible energy portfolio than an antiquated coal-dependent approach.
When Naperville negotiated its current power contract, the city secured the right to choose its energy source for 2030. However, our current coal-heavy provider is now pushing for a decision five years early—despite lacking any contractual authority to do so. Their urgency stems from the fact that they bargain from a position of weakness – their solution is becoming less viable. Coal is already not the most cost-effective option, and its competitiveness declines every year, as the market rapidly adopts new technologies (and we anticipate new technologies like improved battery storage). It is not our taxpayers’ job to offer a bailout to a power plant with an uncertain future.
Our next energy contract must keep our options open and prioritize what’s best for our city and its residents. Coal is the dirtiest source of energy. Accounting for all the environmental damage, carbon emissions, and negative economic impacts, it is also the most expensive. It behooves us to look at more sustainable and clean energy sources for our residents.
In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
Yes, I have supported this initiative consistently, and it initially passed the Council with a 9-0 vote. The political winds shifted in the past couple of years, but I have remained steadfast in my commitment to affordable housing and hope we bring this back to the new Council for the following reasons:
We should ensure that our hospital workers, police officers, teachers, and firefighters have access to decent, affordable living spaces. This is a sign of a healthy community.
We have a shortage of affordable housing, which leads to increasing purchase and rent prices and the displacement of mid to lower-income residents, including young working families and seniors on a fixed income. Offering developers incentives to build affordable housing units can help close this gap.
Housing instability is a major driver of financial stress, family stress, and even health and safety risks. By providing stable, affordable housing, Naperville can improve overall community well-being.
In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEI programs? Should the city continue to support DEI efforts?
Naperville is a very diverse community, both in its demographics and in its workforce. This includes wide differences in age, ability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. In an effort to ensure that the city was meeting its obligation to all its constituents, the council hired its first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager Dr. Geneace Williams in February 2021, shortly before I was elected. Dr. Williams’ tenure has been significant in that she has partnered with other organizations in the community, including holding wide-ranging listening sessions, developing events, and conducting teach-ins at the college and high school levels. I’ve been a strong supporter of Dr. Williams, and have tried as a councilmember to make sure people from all walks of life are included in our community.
Personally, some of my proudest work has been in supporting housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, advocating for Pridefest, celebrating religious festivals, and working with the Senior Task Force – all diverse populations. I am proud our city has chosen a positive direction, and I think it speaks to the character of our community that we are a welcoming place.
Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
It should absolutely be a priority. Naperville’s railway station occupies a unique position in our urban environment as a gateway to our city and as a link to other communities and to Chicago. If you asked a visitor to guess which community is ranked the best city in America based on the view out the BNSF train from Chicago, they would never guess Naperville, based on our train station’s sea of aging parking lots and lack of amenities.
We need to plan a beautiful, mixed-use, transit-oriented space that harmonizes with the existing area. This year, I proposed to City Staff the idea of bringing in an independent non-profit, the Urban Land Institute, to study potential uses for the land. Council ended up commissioning the Urban Land Institute to conduct its study, which will include obtaining resident input and comparing our community to similar communities around the country, looking for best practices. I feel strongly that by starting with a baseline plan, developed by a nonprofit with no financial skin in the game, and with resident input, we can have a process that is transparent and ultimately succeeds in making the train station area a truly transit-oriented, sustainable, and beautiful area.
JENNIFER BRUZAN TAYLOR
Age: 42
Address: 309 Spring Ave., Naperville
Marital status: Married
Children’s ages: 9, 7, 3
Education: JD, Boston College Law School, 2007; BA, Vanderbilt University (magna cum laude), 2004; Neuqua Valley High School Class of 2000 (1st Graduating Class)
Occupation: Current Naperville City Councilwoman; former Cook County prosecutor; former adjunct professor of Constitutional Law at North Central College
Employer: City of Naperville
Current elected office, if applicable: Naperville City Council
Previous elected office: N/A
Civic or social service group membership or community volunteer work: Serves as the City Council liaison on the Downtown Naperville Alliance, the Regulatory Committee of the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference, the Transportation Advisory Board, and the Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force. I previously served as the City Council liaison to the Naperville Public Library Board of Trustees.
I also served on the DuPage Children’s Museum NextGen Board and as Vice Chairwoman of the Westside Homeowner’s Association (WHOA). In 2019, I was involved with the Housing Conditions Focus Group to assess the housing shortages in the City, and was the WHOA neighborhood liaison to the Nichols Library Parking Garage Working Group. I am a prior member of multiple professional organizations, such as the DuPage County Bar Association, the Chicago Bar Association, and the Illinois Bar Association.
1. Naperville’s contract with its current electricity provider, the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency, expires in 2035. What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
The City is now in the beginning stages of determining how it will procure its energy once our contract with the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) ends in 2035. The City made a commitment to improve its sustainability efforts in many ways, one of which is lowering its reliance on coal. As the City Council liaison to the Naperville Environmental Sustainability Task Force (NEST), I understand the need to find the appropriate balance between significantly lowering our greenhouse gas output, without losing the reliability of service and low rates that Naperville prides itself on. I also know that Naperville’s reliability is because 95% of our electric lines are underground. The remaining 5% of above ground electric lines cause about half of our current outages. Over the next ten years, Naperville plans to bury this remaining 5% so that we improve the reliability of our energy even more.
As to my actions so far, I pushed for the City to hire an energy consultant to look at all the various ways Naperville can procure its energy in the future and the pros and cons of each possibility. I advocated for transparency every step of the way in this process, which includes multiple workshops open to the public once the consultant is ready to present options. I will push for competitive bidding for whichever option is ultimately chosen. Finally, this process will be done on the City’s timeline, not any timeline created by IMEA or others. There is no penalty with IMEA for not renewing by April 30, 2025.
2. In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
For a long time, according to the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), we were below the 10% threshold for affordable housing in Naperville. I know that I, among others, encouraged our developers to present projects to help address our affordable housing needs, and our development community rose to the challenge. There are several different types of housing approved over the last four years that help young professionals, families, seniors, and our intellectual developmentally delayed (IDD) community. According to IHDA, as of 2023, 10.3% of our housing stock is considered affordable. With this success, I still am mindful of the housing shortage needs in our community, especially for our seniors and IDD community. I am proud of my role in advocating for the Tower Courts development, which provides housing for our seniors and IDD community. This project also included the sale of unused City owned land at 103rd and Rt 59, adding it to the property tax rolls, and so a double win. There is room for a Phase II for Tower Courts at this location as well. I also see 5th Avenue as a perfect location for another similar housing project for our seniors and IDD community.
As for the Affordable Housing Incentive Program (AHIP) before City Council in November, myself, and the overwhelming majority of those on Council, whether in general they support affordable housing or not, had issues with the “by right” provision that is the heart of AHIP. Because with this “by right” provision, which is how we incentivize developers in the ordinance, once developers are eligible, the project and the incentives they pick is approved by staff only. There is no public process before Planning and Zoning Commission or before City Council. City Council members, who are elected to represent the interests of all those who live in Naperville, do not vote on the project. Our community cannot urge us, for example, to focus on one type of affordable housing over another because the public and City Council are cut out. Both when I ran in 2021 and now for re-election, I ran to “be the voice of the people, to ensure people feel heard.” An ordinance with a “by right” provision prevents me from fulfilling that promise, and hurts my ability to increase the available affordable housing to our seniors and IDD communities.
3. In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEI programs? Should the city continue to support DEI efforts?
I believe in the diversity of ideas. I constantly teach my three young children about the power of listening and reflecting on the ideas shared by all. There is always something to be learned when you take the time to listen and challenge your views. And so, should the City support DEI programming? Yes, but not in its current format. Currently, diversity initiatives are paid for through the property tax levy. Though not inquired about by the Naperville Sun in its questionnaire, one of the biggest issues Naperville is facing is the State of Illinois’ repeal of the municipal grocery tax statute. This repeal of the grocery tax leaves a reoccurring $6M revenue gap in the City’s 2026 budget. This loss has a dramatic and immediate impact on the City of Naperville, which very well may affect the City’s ability to provide all its current services if we do not find a reoccurring revenue source to fill that revenue loss. There is no silver bullet to solve this revenue gap and some hard decisions need to be made.
One of the criticisms of the City’s current DEI program is that the results are non-measurable. Currently, many intangible, non-measurable investments are made into the community through the City’s Special Event Community Arts Program (SECA) funding. Our public art is a great example. But instead of creating a City art department with full time employees and pension obligations, we award grants to organizations who use the funds to beautify our City. In my opinion, this is a much more fiscally responsible way to fund diversity initiatives in our community. It gives us the ability to adjust priorities annually in response to budgetary and economic pressures, while at the same time supporting a program that people in our community find important, just like art. As an obligation on our property tax levy, we lose this flexibility and are faced with escalating costs that we are required to pay no matter the current financial circumstances of the City. Plus, it does not force those who do not want to pay for diversity initiatives to pay through their property taxes. If there is community demand, it should be funded through the City’s SECA grants.
4. Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
What are we going to do with 5th Avenue? That is a question asked by many over the years, including me. I was heavily involved during the last attempt at re-developing 5th Avenue, and the one common ground from both sides was that 5th Avenue cannot continue in its current underutilized state. With that in mind, the City Council is taking a different approach this time and using the Urban Land Institute Assistance Panel (ULI), which specializes in helping cities create a plan to redevelop large parcels of land. ULI is made up of experts in the field and are a neutral 3rd party with no connection to Naperville. City Council already pushed forth five detailed questions that ULI should focus on regarding 5th Avenue, that includes financing, re-development strategy, types of housing, community amenities, and improving its function as a transit center. ULI will complete the study in the summer of 2025, and it is important to note that what ULI presents is non-binding.
I am curious as to ULI’s finding and also open minded as to their suggestions. We do need to ensure that whatever is built at 5th Avenue, that we do not forget that this is a train station. About 80% of commuters live south of the train station, and we need to be aware of their needs and ease of access in any redevelopment decisions. At this time, I also think 5th Avenue should be redeveloped as one planned, coherent development, not parceled out, which may lead to a disconnected hodge podge. In addition, Naperville rarely offers tax incentives, and I support that general policy. A motivation to re-develop 5th Avenue is to better generate property taxes for the City, and so any tax incentives is anti-productive to that goal. Last, but not least, we cannot forget that 5th Avenue is nestled between multiple neighborhoods and schools, and we need to ensure any re-development benefits, not detracts from, those neighborhoods and schools.
ASHFAQ SYED
Age: 51
Address: 1227 Springdale Circle
Marital Status: Married
Children’s ages: 4, 16, 20
Education: Bachelor of Commerce and Business Management Occupation: Banker/ Small Business Owner
Employer: Community Events Management
Civic or social service group membership or community volunteer work:
President of the Naperville Public Library Board, Co-Chair of the Naperville 2020 Census Committee, Member of the Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force, Board Member of Loaves and Fishes, Graduate of the Naperville Citizen Police Academy & Fire
Academy, Committee Member for 360 Youth Services, Civic Engagement Leader for the Islamic Center of Naperville, Board Member of Naperville Neighbors United and member of Naperville Interfaith Leaders Association (NILA)
1. Naperville’s contract with its current electricity provider, the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency, expires in 2035. What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
Naperville has an opportunity to make a forward-thinking decision about its energy future—one that balances affordability, sustainability, and long-term economic stability. While maintaining reliable and cost-effective energy is critical, we must also recognize the financial risks and environmental consequences of locking ourselves into a coal-dependent contract for decades to come.
Instead of rushing into an early extension, I envision Naperville pursuing a diversified energy portfolio that prioritizes cleaner, more affordable options. Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and battery storage are becoming increasingly cost-competitive, and we should explore partnerships that allow us to transition toward lower-emission alternatives. Additionally, engaging in a fair and open bidding process would ensure that Naperville ratepayers receive the best possible deal, rather than committing to an outdated and costly energy source.
Moving forward, the city must carefully weigh long-term financial risks, potential health impacts, and sustainability goals. We have an obligation to future generations to make energy choices that not only meet our current needs but also position Naperville as a leader in innovation and environmental responsibility.
2. In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
Yes, the city should revisit discussions on an incentives program for developers to increase Naperville’s affordable housing stock. While the affordable housing catalog is a step in the right direction by providing information on existing options, it does not actively address the growing need for more affordable housing.
An incentives program could encourage responsible development that includes affordable housing units by offering zoning flexibility, fee reductions, or density bonuses to developers who commit to meeting the city’s affordability goals. Many surrounding communities have successfully implemented similar programs, leading to more diverse housing options without overburdening taxpayers.
Affordable housing is essential to ensuring that Naperville remains a welcoming, inclusive city for young professionals, seniors, and working families. By reviving discussions on an incentives program, the city can take a proactive approach to addressing housing challenges while maintaining smart, sustainable growth.
3. In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEI programs? Should the city continue to support DEI efforts?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are essential to ensuring that Naperville remains a welcoming, thriving, and forward-thinking community. Our city’s mission statement commits to providing services that enhance quality of life, maintain sound fiscal management, and support a dynamic business environment—all while fostering an inclusive community that values diversity. Upholding this commitment means ensuring that all
residents, regardless of background, feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute to our city’s success.
Naperville has made progress in advancing DEI, and I believe we must continue supporting initiatives that promote fairness, expand access to city services, and encourage diverse representation in leadership. By strengthening these efforts, Naperville can lead by example, demonstrating that inclusion and economic vitality go hand in hand. As a City Council member, I will work with residents, businesses, and community leaders to ensure that our policies reflect our city’s mission and our shared values.
4. Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
The Fifth Avenue train station area presents a valuable opportunity for thoughtful redevelopment that aligns with Naperville’s long-term needs. While discussions have taken place over the past decade, it is time for the city to prioritize a well-planned, community-driven approach to determine the best use of this land.
I believe any redevelopment should focus on a mix of uses that enhance accessibility, economic growth, and quality of life. This could include transit-oriented housing that supports a range of incomes, small business and retail opportunities, expanded parking and infrastructure improvements, and sustainable green spaces that complement the surrounding neighborhoods.
The city should play a role in facilitating redevelopment by engaging residents, businesses, and stakeholders to ensure transparency and public input. While public-private partnerships could help fund the project, taxpayer investment should be carefully considered to ensure fiscal responsibility while maximizing long-term community benefits. Any plan must balance economic growth with responsible development, sustainability, and maintaining Naperville’s character.
MARY GIBSON
Age: 38
Address: 1320 Saxon, Naperville
Marital status: married
Children’s ages (if applicable): 11, 9, 6
Education: B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Dayton, double major in History and Political Science; M.A. in Social Science from the University of Chicago; Certificate in Public Policy Analysis from the London School of Economics; Certificate in Civic Leadership from Northern Illinois University; Benet Academy, Class of 2004.
Occupation: Data Analytics, formerly
Employer: n/a, currently
Current elected office, if applicable: Naperville Park District Commissioner, President (2022- present), Vice President (2021-2022)
Previous elected office: n/a
Civic or social service group membership or community volunteer work: Naperville Riverwalk Commissioner (2021- Present), Community Emergency Response Team Member (CERT), Naperville Citizen Police Academy Graduate, Naperville Citizen Fire Academy Graduate, Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Master Board Member, 4 year facilitator for the Open Discussion Project at Anderson’s Bookshop, American Council of Young Political Leaders Alumni Council, Member of my childrens’ school PTAs
1. Naperville’s contract with its current electricity provider, the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency, expires in 2035. What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
The current offer on the table, extending the IMEA contract for another 20 years, is not in the best interest of Naperville nor its residents. As a steward of the city’s tax revenue, I expect a competitive bidding process to make sure the criteria set by City Council is met. This criteria includes cost, environmental impact, and service levels/reliability.
The City Council must ensure that our future energy contract does not exchange short term cost savings for long term problems such as higher energy costs down the road, costly environmental damage, and negative health impacts that could have been mitigated with proactive investment in sustainable solutions. The portfolio of energy sources the city relies on needs to shift from our current carbon-based energy reliance to include more sustainable energy sources, which is a positive for the environment, the economy, and the health of our residents.
City Council’s decisions on how to meet Naperville’s energy needs now and for the next 30 years require evidence-based analysis to ensure any commitment we make is in the best interest of current and future Naperville residents. My background in data analytics as well as my proven experience in managing a $53 million budget at the Park District positions me well for this challenge.
2. In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
A city with a diverse housing stock is a city where long-term residents can stay in the city they love as they age and young professionals have the opportunity to move back to the town they grew up in. A diverse housing stock ensures that the people who work here, such as teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders, can afford to live in the community they serve. And a city with a diverse housing stock is attractive to employers looking to invest in communities where employees can afford to live nearby.
Ultimately, an appropriate amount of affordable housing options creates a more resilient community with options for residents to stay in the town they love even when their economic or other life circumstances change.
The Affordable Housing Incentive Program was a potential solution to help Naperville meet its Illinois Housing Development Authority requirement for at least 10% of the housing stock constituting affordable housing; however, Naperville has since met that threshold. Yet, it is still important for the City Council to explore opportunities that would encourage developers to bring a range of affordable housing options to our community. Creating incentives for development that reflects the needs of all residents, whether they are first-time homebuyers or renters, is a critical step in ensuring Naperville remains an inclusive and resilient community.
If elected to City Council, I would continue to explore ways the city could incentivize developers to bring a range of housing options to Naperville. However, it is essential that any incentive program gives City Council the final decision-making authority on new developments.
3. In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEl programs? Should the city continue to support DEl efforts?
Naperville is home to a rich diversity of cultures, races, religions, sexual orientations, and physical abilities. The City of Naperville’s mission statement is “To provide services that ensure a high quality of life, sound fiscal management, and a dynamic business environment, while creating an inclusive community that values diversity.” I don’t see how we can fulfill that mission if we fail to acknowledge and address the diverse needs of our residents.
When we ignore the diversity within our community, we risk not only failing to meet our obligations to the people we serve but also missing out on the unique and valuable contributions that different backgrounds and perspectives bring to our city. Without a conscious effort to consider how city decisions and policies impact various groups, we may fail to recognize unintended consequences of our policies or reinforce existing inequalities.
Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programming, like any city initiative, it should provide tangible benefits to our community. With my background in data analytics, I appreciate quantifiable, measurable outcomes, but I also recognize that not everything of value can be measured with numbers alone. Qualitative outcomes can be equally important. I would dig into both the quantitative and qualitative data to make sure that the programming we provide and fund is progressing to fulfill the city’s mission statement.
4. Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
The city is fortunate to have the asset at Fifth Avenue and I’m supportive of looking at the best possible use for that location. However, it is not my top priority. The reality is that Indian Prairie School District 204 has higher property taxes on residents because of a smaller commercial taxable base in south Naperville compared to north Naperville. I would prioritize development in south Naperville to bring companies, jobs, and tax revenue to that area of town to lower their taxes.
As to what would be the best possible use for Fifth Avenue, there are a number of concerns that need to be addressed in any proposal not least of which are traffic congestion, safety, and density vis a vis the surrounding neighborhood of families. The prior proposal did not adequately address these concerns and the residents made their displeasure known. Additionally, the prior developer did not take resident feedback into consideration in revised proposals. Listening to residents is a must when talking about a major redevelopment in someone’s backyard. A mixed use development that is a reasonable scale for the surrounding neighborhood, that does not compound congestion and safety concerns, is what will be a winning proposal for Fifth Avenue.
NAG JAISWAL
Age: 55
Address: 4316 Winterberry Ave, Naperville IL 60564
Marital status (spouse’s name, if applicable): Sheela
Children’s ages (if applicable): Sunny (M-32), Karan (M-26), Pooja (F-23)
Education: MS Electrical Engineering, Western Michigan University; EMBA, Northern Illinois University; Certified Illinois Assessment Officer, Illinois Property Assessment Institute
Occupation: Sr. Program Architect
Employer: Salesforce
Current elected office, if applicable: None
Previous elected office: None
Civic or social service group membership or community volunteer work: Rotary Sunrise, Citizens Task Force IPSD204, Indian American Business Council, Hunger Hunt International, AAEIO, Akshaya Patra International, Founder: Avighna Foundation and Salome Foundation
1. Naperville’s contract with its current electricity provider, the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency, expires in 2035. What do you envision for the future of the city’s electric supply? What factors — affordability, sustainability, etc. — should the city prioritize as it decides how to power its electric grid in years to come?
It’s too early to decide on an extension with IMEA. We need to adopt a reliable, costeffective, clean alternate energy strategy agreed by all constituents.
My vision is to target 60% renewable energy generation across Naperville through a public/private partnership.
- We should continue to incentivize Residential Renewables (Solar, Wind)
- Expand Solar Energy to: School buildings (~60+ in Naperville), Park District
buildings, Parks and Golf Courses, Office and Large Commercial Buildings. - I Propose distributed battery storage across the grid utilizing park district land.
- By reaching 60% energy generation via local renewable sources, Naperville will
be able to better negotiate future contracts with energy sources such as Nuclear,
Gas and Clean Coal (if unavoidable).
2. In regards to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, the council last fall opted to create an affordable housing catalog in lieu of an incentives program for developers. Should the city revive discussion over an incentives program? Why or why not?
All housing that results in additional financial burden to Schools and community should be carefully analyzed with mitigation plan in place. Affordable housing in no exception. Ideally, city should focus on incentivizing Senior Home Extensions for parents intending to live with their children on single-family home properties in Naperville. Seniors could build out comfortable one level structures in backyards that can keep them close to their families and reduce financial burden of seniors and their children.
3. In recent years, the city has heightened its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. What are your views on DEI programs? Should the city continue to support DEI efforts?
No known KPIs exist for the outcomes of existing DEI programs. City is undergoing $6M shortfall from Gov. Pritzker’s Grocery Tax cut. It will be in the best interest of the city to shelve DEI programs in lieu of budgetary shortfalls. Any future DEI programs should be carefully planned and implemented based on a well-defined outcome agreed by all stakeholders.
4. Efforts to chart a new path forward for city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station have been discussed on and off for a decade. Should the city make it a priority to revisit possible redevelopment in the coming year and what would you like to see the land used for? What should the city’s role be in funding a redevelopment plan?
City has engaged a consultant to evaluate possible projects around the station. It is
premature to comment on the project without evaluating the recommendation. Naperville city should consider broadening their capital investments beyond Downtown Naperville for an equitable growth of tax base around the city. South Naperville Residents are under increasing property tax burden and are looking for relief from any and all projects that can offset their IPSD 204 Tax Burden.
Originally Published:
