DeKALB | Sophomore accountancy major Brent Keller is a student running in April’s DeKalb alderman election. Keller has been the director of mass transit for the Student Association since last May, as well as president of the NIU College Republicans. He also worked recently on State Rep. Robert Pritchard’s (R-Hinckley) staff aiding in his reelection bid. The Northern Star sat down with Keller and asked him about his aspirations to move from student to city government.

NS: What made you want to run for DeKalb City Council?

BK: “I thought that it would provide me the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to city government. I think that the city government is obviously closest to the people, especially the students, and being a local municipal government, it’s often ignored by the student body. I thought this would not only be a way to bring a fresh perspective, but also increase student interest in city government.”

NS: Why do you think you are qualified to be on the DeKalb City Council?

BK: “My entire life, I’ve followed local politics. Especially here in DeKalb County, I’ve been very involved in local politics; it’s always been sort of an interest of mine, especially city council because I think there are a number of changes that I would like to make that would benefit the entirety of DeKalb. The platform I am running on is one of smart growth; growth that doesn’t overwhelm existing infrastructure to a point where we can strain away from urban sprawl so that DeKalb doesn’t become just another place for strip malls. Also, pedestrian safety on Annie Glidden Road; I think there can be a lot that can be done there, and finally, revitalizing downtown DeKalb; because, it is the anchor of our community. I think that it is time to focus on the heart of DeKalb.”

NS: Would you fight against, or fight to repeal either the 50-cent draft ordinance or the smoking ban?

BK: “Obviously, it is a predominantly student ward and should that come up again, I’m sure the council will have to take it seriously.”

NS: What do you think about students’ lack of interest in voting?

BK: “I don’t think it’s necessarily a lack of interest on their part. I think it’s just that those seeking elected office have never really sought after their concerns. Those seeking elected office have consistently ignored the students and have always gone for the permanent residents, so I’m hoping to strike a balance between the two.”

NS: Would you continue your position as mass transit director for the SA if elected to the DeKalb City Council?

BK: “It’s contingent upon who wins the executive election in the spring. I’m seeking to reapply; it’s something I enjoy. It’s income for me and I think there’s a lot that remains to be done.”

NS: Do you think your student status will affect how the other council members view you?

BK: “It’s difficult to tell, I’ve interacted with several council members before and it really depends on who the council member is. I’m hoping that, if elected, over the course of my tenure that I‘ll be able to form cooperative partnerships so that if there is sort of any initial distrust we can work to overcome that.”