In an effort to help the public make informed decisions in the upcoming Consolidated Election April 4th, we at WROY/WRUL News asked candidates in the contested races for the City of Carmi to fill out a short questionnaire.
Rod Matsel
Carmi Township Trustee
- Tell us a little about yourself.
Born at Carmi Township Hospital 60 years ago. Graduated from Carmi Schools in 1974. Married the former Julie Mallette in 1984. Have two boys Kyle and Lukas, and a cat named Trump.
- Why do you want to serve?
Was appointed as a Carmi Township trustee three years ago to serve out the rest of Roger Heckler’s term upon his untimely death. In this time I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from a great group, Supervisor, board and support staff. I would like to continue to see Carmi Township operate in the same progressive manner it has for the last 16 years. I care a great deal about the well being of Carmi, and Carmi Township, and want to see our Township stay on good financial footing so we can plan for the future generations, while holding down tax increases.
- What are the biggest issues you see facing your desired position? How do you plan to address these issues?
The biggest challenges facing Carmi Township in the future will be to hold cost down while preserving the needs of the people. None of us want to pay higher taxes, but we all want good roads to drive on,
We want our cemeteries taken care of, assistants program run efficiently and our taxing bodies run fairly. In today’s economic environment we must be at the top of our game and as effective as possible to make it all jell.
- What sets you apart from the other candidates? Why should voters choose you on April 4th?
Make no mistake about it, Carmi Township is a business. And it should be run like a business. It is your money we are spending. I am a conservative who has been in business in Carmi for 30 years. I know what it’s like to be on a budget. I have been involved with several civic organizations throughout Carmi. I am a board member of the Carmi Garden of Memories and a member of the local Elks lodge. Also, I am a long time member of the Carmi Kiwanis club, including being a past president. When it comes to trying to hold down tax increases, I have skin in the game. I have raised my family in Carmi and take my role as a Carmi Township trustee, and more importantly, a member of this community seriously. I have the knowledge and experience to help our township team continue to be productive.
I am asking for your vote and support on April 4th.
