Name: Cynthia Cook
Age: 57
Hometown: Innsbrook
Occupation: Retired CPA
Position sought: Innsbrook board of trustees
Previous political experience: Village of Innsbrook Planning and Zoning Commissioner, June 2025-present; Village of Innsbrook Trustee; November 2022-April 2025.
Why are you running and why should people vote for you?
I feel a strong sense of responsibility to help guide our community as we address growth and development. There has been a suggestion from a board member that the Village should rely less on lawyers and professional managers as we move forward. However, based on my background as a Certified Public Accountant with experience in public accounting, I believe the opposite is true.
It is essential for both the Board and the Planning and Zoning volunteers to utilize the expertise of the Village attorney and other professionals. These resources are crucial in educating ourselves about the tools and strategies necessary for effective management of the Village. My experience allows me to contribute knowledge about the financial aspects of Village operations, supporting the implementation of proper controls and audits. This will help ensure that taxpayer dollars are protected and used efficiently, preventing waste or misuse.
What are your goals if elected?
One of my primary goals is to ensure that our community is protected from development that does not align with our vision of being “A Community in Harmony With Nature.” I am committed to preserving the character and natural beauty that make Innsbrook unique.
I will work collaboratively with current village staff and dedicated volunteers to unite our shared purpose, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual support within our community. By working together, we can achieve outcomes that benefit everyone.
It is also important to me that we support each individual in our community while remaining vigilant against the influence of special interest groups. Our goal should be to safeguard our resources and ensure they are used for the benefit of all, rather than allowing them to be diverted or depleted by outside interests.
What issues are most pressing for your constituency?
The Village Plan places a strong emphasis on fostering growth that remains in harmony with the natural environment. In pursuit of this vision, there are several immediate concerns that require ongoing education, careful consideration, and thorough debate within our community.
Traffic and Infrastructure
One of the most pressing issues facing our community is the increasing traffic along Route F, as well as the implications of new roads being constructed. Addressing these concerns will necessitate close collaboration with Innsbrook Corporation regarding their development plans. It is essential to advocate for the needs and interests of residents both inside and outside the gates of the resort. By doing so, we can promote harmony not only with nature but also among community members.
As these development projects move forward, we must also consider the financial and infrastructure challenges that accompany them. Effective coordination with planning and zoning authorities will be crucial to ensure that growth aligns with our community’s long-term goals and preserves the unique character of our village.
Public Safety and Services
With the anticipated growth, the community must also engage in discussions about public safety, particularly police and fire protection. As our needs evolve, there may come a time when these services transition from being provided by the others in the county to being managed directly by the Village. Such a shift would represent a significant undertaking, requiring substantial groundwork and preparation to ensure a smooth transition and continued safety for all residents.
Welcoming New Businesses
As new businesses express interest in joining the Village, the Board should take an active role in educating them about our community’s values and principles. Providing guidance on how to be good neighbors will help ensure that new enterprises contribute positively and remain consistent with the ideals that define our village.
