Despite an expanding transportation business and a growing family, Jack Kaufman continues to make time to be a civil servant. For years, he has worked as a volunteer EMT firefighter and is the department’s current emergency medical services coordinator and trainer. Now, he is taking on a new role in serving the Village of Moweaqua, a central Illinois community of about 2,000 people.
This month, the Timi’s Tours vice president was sworn in as the latest member of the Moweaqua Village Council, replacing a council member who had died. He was asked to serve on the council by Mayor Shawn Conlin, and the council unanimously approved Kaufman to fill the remainder of the term that expires next year. After that, he plans to run for the seat.
Kaufman has taken on a leadership role in the industry, serving on the Midwest Bus and Motorcoach Association board.
A needed perspective
Kaufman says he feels his perspective as a small business owner is needed on the village council.
“I’m trying to revitalize our community and attract businesses to the town,” said Kaufman. “Almost all of our village’s residents go out of town for work, and I’d like to see that change. I’d like to see our tax dollars stay in town so our restaurants and businesses can continue to thrive.
“So, I want to do whatever I can to facilitate that happening and also facilitate our police department continuing to be as strong as it is, and our village services being what they are. We actually have one of the highest-rated water departments in the state of Illinois. We consistently win awards for the quality of our water. And I like seeing us continue to provide those services and continue to attract people to move to our community.”