Peoria County Treasurer Branden Martin and Democratic challenger Randy Stevens offered sharply different perspectives during a recent candidate forum ahead of the Nov. 3 election. Martin highlighted changes made since his appointment, while Stevens emphasized his decades in finance and plans for greater transparency and public outreach.
Key takeaways
- Martin defended his record after taking office following Nicole Bjerke’s retirement.
- Stevens pointed to more than 20 years of financial and pension-management experience.
- Technology, office security, public communication and potential conflicts of interest emerged as central issues.
The candidates spoke at the main branch of the Peoria Public Library, outlining how they would manage an office responsible for county funds and property-tax payments.
Martin promotes changes in the treasurer’s office
Martin, a Republican who was appointed treasurer last year, said he has faced a steep learning curve while working to modernize the office. He reported reducing paperwork by about 20% and purchasing chairs, electronics and other equipment with his own money after assessing staff needs.
He also said he has strengthened online security by adding multiple safeguards to protect county funds. Martin described the treasurer’s responsibilities as highly specialized, noting that the office handles payments connected to more than 80,000 parcels and that he is the only person authorized to approve and collect those payments.
Martin said he works at least 50 hours a week in and outside the office. He also operates nine businesses and serves in several community roles, including chairing the City of Peoria’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
Stevens emphasizes financial experience
Stevens, a Democrat, said his professional background would prepare him to lead the treasurer’s office. He has spent more than two decades in the financial sector, including 13 years with the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, where he leads a team responsible for pension management and training for thousands of Illinois employers.
He said he would become a full-time treasurer if elected and would leave his position at IMRF. Stevens also called for more investment information on the county treasurer’s website and stronger public awareness of programs that can help seniors reduce their property-tax burden.
Candidates address technology and potential conflicts
A tense moment came when the candidates discussed artificial intelligence. Martin said he supports using AI to help employees manage workloads. Stevens did not address the technology’s advantages or risks directly, instead returning the discussion to the candidates’ qualifications and his commitment to serving full time.
Martin later thanked Stevens for speaking with him about possible conflicts of interest. Martin said he has no conflicts, despite his business and civic activities.
Communication remains a concern
Martin said one of his biggest frustrations has been what he described as limited communication between the County Board and the treasurer. He argued that the official responsible for county money should be more closely connected to board discussions.
He also criticized the amount of staff time devoted to Freedom of Information Act requests, saying some requests make it harder for employees to complete their regular duties. Stevens, meanwhile, focused on providing residents with clearer information about investments and tax-relief opportunities as the campaign moves toward Election Day.
