Alderman Karen Michalczyk - Ward 2

Karen was elected in 2003 and has lived in Countryside for 22 years with her husband, Tom.  They have one (1) daughter, Amanda, who lives with her husband, Michael, in Naperville.  In 2005, Karen retired from AT&T after thirty-three (33) years.

As the chairman of the Hotel/Motel committee since 2005, Karen has been a vital force in many innovations and projects.  Some of her projects have included bringing in more revenue potential by creating awareness about the City through billboards, Stevenson Expressway Countryside identification signs, City brochures, banners, and our latest Web site - www.gocountryside.net.  All funds used to promote the City come from the hotel/motel tax that visitors pay while staying in our hotels and motels.

She also negotiated multi-year contracts for our communications firm, Serafin and Associates, and the billboards, which have resulted in cost savings.  Spearheading the ITEP grant process also has brought the City a $780,000 grant to beautify LaGrange Road.

Karen served as the appointed chairman of the Business License committee from 2003-2005.  During her appointment- working with the good rapport she built with the City Clerk's Office- processes and procedures were implemented to standardize and enforce the City's license and registration procedures.  This has resulted in significant increase in licenses and registrations, generating more revenue for the City.

She is a member of the finance committee, recreation committee, and the Flagg Creek golf course board.  She has helped to rein in costs as well as make suggestions and solve problems brought to the boards.

She believes that an elected official should enter into public service to share their knowledge and experience with their constituents, seek out problems, and find solutions.  Too many people only run for office to enhance their own personal gain.

Karen weights the pros and cons of each issue and always votes (never abstains), in the best interest of her constituents.  She hopes to build on the work she has started to continue to make Countryside the best it can be.