Metro East Sun

Patrick McRae has a simple reason for seeking a second term on the Wood River Township Board of Trustees in the April 4 election.  

"If good people never run for election, good things can never be accomplished," he told the Metro East Sun. "I'm running to be a good steward of everyone's hard-earned tax dollars and most important concerns."

In that spirit, McRae vowed to continue his crusade to cut spending. He was the only trustee to vote "no" to a proposed 8 percent raise for elected officials earlier this year. Although Township Supervisor Mike Babcock also voted against it, the measure passed.

During his first term, McRae voted against all proposed tax increases and helped to keep tax levy rates stable or make them lower.

“Without me, taxpayers lose a lot of oversight," he said. "Good government is about knowing how and being willing to take a hard-line stance on important issues."

The township is in solid financial shape mostly due to elected leaders willing to say "no," he said.

McRae has a long history in the township. He grew up in Rosewood Heights (unincorporated East Alton) and Bethalto, and moved back to Rosewood Heights after marrying Marissa (Meyers) McRae of Wood River, remaining a lifelong resident of the township.

"For years, my father served on the township board," McRae said. "I can remember him leading by example when it was found that the township assessor's office was misusing funds, and when the former highway commissioner was making fraudulent purchases with township funds. Issues like these are what gives me the energy to keep fighting for the people of this area."

That connection to local residents keeps him in touch with constituents' concerns, even when his fellow trustees disagree with him, he said.

"It's not always easy to take a stand when other elected officials in the room don't share your vision," McRae said. "But when you realize that 90 percent of the people outside that room agree with you, it gives you the strength to push forward. The message of lower taxes, driving a bargain for taxpayers, and keeping a more watchful eye over expenses is a message embraced by most people."

McRae is among eight candidates running for four seats on the board.