Meet Pat Henderson: candidate for Roscoe Township Trustee

Pat Henderson is running as a write-in candidate for Roscoe Township Trustee in the April 1 election. Check out all our candidate profiles in our expanded 2025 Election Guide for Roscoe, Rockton, and South Beloit.

Why did you decide to run?

I've dedicated over four decades to serving as a Roscoe Township Trustee, and my commitment to our community remains as strong as ever. My decision to seek re-election comes from a deep desire to continue promoting transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the well-being of all residents. I want to keep working to ensure that Roscoe Township remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. With my experience and conservative approach to governance, I believe I can continue making a difference for our community.

Tell us about your background and accomplishments that you bring to the table.

As a long time resident of Roscoe, my roots in this community run deep. My wife, Cathy, and I have raised our two children here, and both of them, along with our four grandchildren, have attended or are attending schools in the Hononegah district. Professionally, I spent 34 years working for Alliant Energy before retiring.

I’ve had the pleasure of serving Roscoe Township for the last 44 years, and during that time, I’ve been involved in many projects that have helped shape our community, including the Hononegah Path, the Stone Bridge Trail, the Stone Bridge Lookout, Kelley Myers Park, the Kenwood-Creek Path, Cross Park, and the Roscoe Middle School Path. Additionally, I was part of the negotiating team that secured the historic Robert J. Cross home and its surrounding 17 acres. The property was originally listed for $500,000, but we successfully negotiated a purchase price of $277,000 in cash, demonstrating fiscal responsibility while preserving an important piece of Roscoe’s history.

Beyond my work as a trustee, I have been an active member of the First Congregational Community Church of Roscoe, where I participate in the men’s group and have served on the Board of Trustees. I am also a veteran and take great pride in serving both my country and my community.

What do you hope to accomplish in this office in the future?

I want to strengthen community engagement by making sure residents have a voice in township decisions and that local government remains open and accessible. I am committed to maintaining financial responsibility by negotiating the best possible deals for township projects and keeping spending in check. By focusing on smart planning and responsible budgeting, I will work to ensure that our community continues to grow and thrive without placing unnecessary burdens on taxpayers. My goal is to build on the successes we have achieved while continuing to move Roscoe Township forward in a way that benefits all residents.

Why should people vote for you?

I’m running on my own record, not anyone else’s. Roscoe Independents is the best Township Government I’ve worked with in 44 years, and I’m proud of our accomplishments. I would be honored to continue serving our community. I humbly ask you to write-in a vote for me to continue this work.