Citizens for Klein

Tom was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois. Early on, he developed a strong work ethic assisting his grandfather in the plumbing business while attending high school. Graduating from Rockford East High School in 1981, Tom joined the Circuit Clerk's Office the same week he graduated.

His first position was a microfilm technician. After a few years, Tom became supervisor of that division. He continued on, working in just about every area of the clerk's office, becoming very knowledgeable with all aspects of the office. In July of 1997, Tom was promoted to Chief Deputy Clerk, a post he held until being appointed Circuit Clerk in February of 2007.

He takes great pride in his family, which includes wife Margo, step-daughters Amy and Stacy, and especially his grandson, Isaiah, whom he spends time with on many fishing and camping outings. A little know fact about Tom is he plays the guitar and sings. He sang with a church choir many years. He also performed in the Winnebago County Legal Follies. Tom also spent many years as a volunteer coordinator with the "On The Waterfront" festival.

Tom maintains memberships in organizations dedicated to the professionalism of the office, including the Northeast Circuit Clerk Association, the Illinois Association of Court Clerks, and the Cosmopolitan Business Group. He is also a member of the American Lombardi Society and the Venetian Club.

Tom is a firm believer in increased technology and efficiency to make the office more user friendly and responsive to the public it serves. Customer service is Tom's main focus. He has enhanced the functions of the clerk's office through case file imaging, allowing court officials to view legal documents on their own computer terminals. During his tenure, E-Pay was developed, allowing citizens to pay certain traffic fines electronically over the internet and also over the phone. He is presently working with the Chief Judge with the development of E-Plea, which will allow defendants to submit guilty pleas on certain criminal and traffic cases electronically.

He presently serves on the Winnebago County Gap Committee which is studying the work flow of cases through the legal system, from the squad car to the courtroom. Tom recently selected a vendor for a new case management system for the clerk's office to address the growing case load and efficiencies of the legal system. The new system should be fully developed and running by 2010.

Having over twenty-six years of proven experience with the clerk's office allowed Tom the benefit of observing what works and what doesn't which has given him enormous head way in many critical areas.

Tom is always available to the citizens addressing any concerns they may have. He is known for his efficiency and promptness resolving issues.

Tom needs your support to help him accomplish his goals and continue the high degree of efficiency in the clerk's office.