Alyssa Haaker

Editor's note: This is one of a series of articles previewing candidates vying in the April 4 consolidated election. Early voting is underway.While Alyssa Haaker has never served in political office, she's got more than her fair share of connections in Springfield. A life-long resident of the city, she knows plenty of movers and shakers willing to provide a hand, which she feels makes her well-suited to making Springfield attractive to businesses of any size."I know Springfield," Haaker said. "I know what Springfield needs, I know a lot of the business owners here, so I think that helps me understand how to make Springfield more business-friendly."More:Parts of MacArthur Boulevard to be closed starting Monday for water main repairHaaker is competing with Jennifer Notariano, a former Springfield City Treasurer candidate and state employee, to replace Kristin DiCenso in Ward 6 of the Springfield City Council. DiCenso is leaving after six years on the board to concentrate on her role with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.Alyssa HaakerAge: 33Occupation: Attorney for the Labor Council of the Illinois Fraternal Order of PoliceFamily: Single, no childrenPolitical experience: None