Politics & Government

Election 2013: Alberta Adamson

Alberta Adamson is one of four Wheaton City Council candidates in the city's North District in the 2013 municipal election.

Alberta Adamson is a candidate for Wheaton City Council in the city's North District race. Adamson, 65, is the president & CEO Wheaton Historic Preservation Council/Center for History who's family resides in Wheaton, including her husband, Dennis; daughters, Amy Marson (John) and Jami Omachel (Doug); and five grandchildren. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in museum management from DePaul University. Adamson is one of four candidates in the North District race. 

Name: Alberta Adamson

Position sought: Wheaton City Councilman, North District

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Campaign contact information:

Age: 65

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Family (name, relationship and age): My family all live in Wheaton, 

  • Husband, Dennis Adamson
  • Daughter, Amy Marson, husband John
  • Children, Alex, Jack and Nicky
  • Daughter, Jami Omachel, husband Doug
  • Children, Ethan and Kyle

Education (degree and school): 

  • BA Museum Management, DePaul University

Occupation: President & CEO Wheaton Historic Preservation Council / Center for History

Political party affiliation, If any:  Republican

Previous elected offices: None

Applicable experience qualifying you for the position: 

 Being in charge of a not-for-profit organization means I am responsible for all aspects of the museum. Creating and managing budgets, fundraising, public relations, research, marketing, preservation of historic materials and objects, and education programs are routine tasks for me. My strengths are maintaining relationships with staff and volunteers, working within government systems, and the ability to look broadly at issues or projects for the benefit of the community.  I am budget conscientious,  ethical, and dedicated to a better Wheaton as evidenced by my involvement in Wheaton.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

Living and working in Wheaton has given me the opportunity to see and hear the pulse of the people. I understand the issues and how government works. As an elected official I become a player at the table and can represent the citizens more effectively. 

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

A strong Economic Development plan is essential to the livelihood of Wheaton. It is the road map to increasing sales tax revenue. The strengths, such as essential businesses and cultural activities, which already exist, should not be overlooked. Securing new businesses to fill empty storefronts and pockets of land on the south side of the tracks must be a priority. Wheaton needs to generate an atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions that entices people to shop, visit, and dine.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

My thirty-four  year love affair with Wheaton sets me apart from the other candidates. The love began when I moved here and blossomed into a full-fledged advocate when I became involved in the community as a volunteer. Working in Wheaton allows me to be engaged in its daily activities. Finding creative solutions is part of my leadership proficiencies, along with fiscal management, public relations, and team building. My experience in the non-profit arena provides business skills that come only from working in the not-for-profit field.

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How long have you lived in Wheaton? If applicable, how long have you been involved with Wheaton?

My family moved to Wheaton in July of 1978 and I first became involved in Longfellow’s PTA that fall. Since then I have served on several boards and committees including the Chamber of Commerce, Wheaton Historic Preservation Council, R. B. Ryall Swim Team, Historic Commission, many community organizations, two Sesquicentennial celebrations (chaired the founding celebration and history chair for the incorporation). I have been an advocate for Wheaton for nearly thirty-four years and want to help Wheaton build on it strengths for a strong economic future.

What's your favorite thing about Wheaton?

The rich and diverse heritage of Wheaton has created a sense of place where people feel safe and benefit from its educational and cultural institutions. What Wheaton is today started with our founding fathers’ vision for a prosperous community. When I look around at the downtown, Wheaton College, and Danada,  I feel peace and pride in my heart knowing they would be beaming with joy knowing their vision still holds true.

What is the biggest problem in Wheaton?

Generating new sources of revenue is an obstacle Wheaton faces.  With very little industry and numerous churches and non-profit facilities, Wheaton has a bigger challenge than most towns. The development projects in the works now will certainly help. Advancing our economic development plans for the entire city can increase tax revenue and bring vitality to our community.

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