Choose Getz, Schuring-Redmer in ECC

In addition to escalating budget constraints forced by difficult financial times, new Elgin Community College trustees to be elected April 7 may face an additional challenge.

Should the college's referendum fail, they will have to find other ways to manage the building needs and the threat to the library's accreditation - which could, in turn, jeopardize transferring credits from ECC to a four-year school. Add in the expectation that ECC's enrollment numbers will continue to surge as unemployment and a tough economy combine to send many people back to school and it's clear it will be no easy task ahead. Trustees will need to be well-versed in the intricacies of education funding, community needs, classroom requirements and, above all, budget management 101.

Four candidates are vying for two 6-year seats. Incumbent Bob Getz, retired from Harper College where he oversaw the school's physical plant and construction of new facilities, proudly notes he is often the lone "no" vote on ECC's board now. He vows to continue strong fiscal oversight and ensure the college is responsive to the community's needs, especially in terms of work force development.

Donna Schuring-Redmer, a former small business owner and Community Unit District 300 principal and administrator who is now an education coach for the Kane County Regional Office of Education, proudly notes she got her start as a returning student at ECC. She also vows strong fiscal oversight and says it's vital that programming reflect the community's needs, particularly for job training.

Robin Lisboa, is a public policy administrator who feels ECC needs to focus on meeting accreditation standards, increasing student access and work force development. She says it's vital to provide the community affordable access during the current economic climate.

Rick Green is a retired ECC instructor who wants to make sure ECC remains affordable for students, improve library quality and provide a vital role for the community in an economic downturn. He feels he'll bring valuable insight during collective bargaining negotiations.

Voters will find it difficult to narrow this field for all bring strong attributes to the table. But Getz and Schuring-Redmer offer valuable experience which is critical during such challenging times.

Bob Getz and Donna Schuring-Redmer are endorsed.