2024 Voter Guide: Candidates for Madison County Board District 15 Republican primary
NAME: BOB COLES
Age as of March 19, 2024: 51
Campaign website or social media page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554517623195
Office seeking: Madison County Board District 15
Are you an incumbent? No
Have you run for elective office before? (Please list previous offices sought.) Yes Roxana School Board
Occupation: Chief of police/village administrator
Education: Masters I/O psychology
Please list highlights of your civic involvement: My journey in community service is deeply rooted in a steadfast commitment to uplifting and empowering our most vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on our youth and elderly. Through active involvement in various capacities, I have endeavored to create meaningful change and provide robust support systems where they are most critically needed.
I created an outreach program specifically tailored for the youth in our area. This initiative is more than a program; it’s a lifeline connecting young individuals to a world of opportunities. Through many activities — from academic tutoring to sports and arts — we don’t just keep kids engaged; we ignite their passions, encourage their dreams, and equip them with the tools to build their future. My role in this endeavor is not merely administrative; I am actively involved in planning and executing these activities, ensuring that each interaction is a steppingstone toward the holistic development of our youth.
Serving on the Madison County 911 Board, I am at the forefront of enhancing our emergency response systems. Through this role, I advocate for and implement strategies that bridge the gap between emergency services and the community’s needs, ensuring safety and security for all.
As a member of the State Elderly Abuse Board of Review, I stand as a staunch defender of the rights and well-being of our senior citizens. My work involves not just addressing incidents of abuse but also proactively shaping policies and educational programs that protect our elders from harm. It’s a commitment to ensure that the twilight years of our community’s members are marked by respect, care and dignity.
Who are your top three campaign contributors? N/A
Why are you running? As a Madison County Board District15 candidate, I stand committed to a fundamental principle: focusing on topics, not people. Recently, we’ve witnessed a shift in the political landscape where the emphasis has moved away from the critical issues at hand toward personal politics. This approach does a disservice to our community and undermines the very essence of effective governance.
With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, including serving as the chief of police for the village of South Roxana, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of public service. My academic journey, pursuing a master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology and holding an undergraduate degree in organizational leadership, has further equipped me with the skills necessary to understand and enhance organizational dynamics and leadership.
As a board member, I believe in supporting and providing essential tools for those representing county government. Elected officials should work for their staff, acknowledging and appreciating the dedication of those who commit their lives to their jobs. These individuals deserve our utmost gratitude and support.
Politically, I position myself in the middle of the aisle. I am equally comfortable shaking hands with Democrats and Republicans, focusing on issues rather than personal affiliations. This approach is crucial for reducing the heightened rhetoric that has plagued Madison County politics. We need to support our leaders and work collaboratively to steer our county toward its deserved standing.
I am running for the Madison County Board because I believe in a politics of substance over personality, of issues over affiliations. Together, we can foster a more productive, respectful and issue-focused political environment that genuinely serves the interests of our community.
What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? I would focus on the topics, not politics. This has caused a massive issue under the current District 15 board member. Numerous board positions have been left vacant throughout our county, affecting the employees’ everyday work; delay in listening to the staff of Madison County has cost the taxpayers an additional 2.1 million dollars to redo the sally port at the Sheriff’s Department. This wastes taxpayers’ dollars by not making decisions and listening to employees’ needs and safety issues. In addition, the former Wood River Hospital is another major expense burden being pushed down the road instead of deciding on the facility. Madison County has already had two studies done at the hospital, and now they want a third. This makes no sense to me, nor should it to taxpayers and is just another example of delaying in making decisions.
Why should people vote for you? My education, work and military service record make me a better candidate for this position. I believe board members should listen to the employees who serve our county and focus less on who brought the idea to the board. I believe in people over politics.
Terry Eaker
The BND has not received a response from Republican primary Madison County Board District 15 candidate Terry Eaker.
