East Dundee: Jerald Bartels

Village residents will, in effect, choose between two incumbents when they go to the polls April 7. Dan O'Leary was appointed current village president after former Village President Jerald Bartels stepped down when his full-time job demands prevented him from giving the village his full attention two years ago.

Each says they're best for the post, vowing to spur economic development and carefully monitor staff and finances. Though they differ in style and approach, both Bartels and O'Leary agree East Dundee needs aggressive moves to lure economic development and diversify the tax base in a town which has lost several of its biggest sales-tax generators and faces losing more with Wal-Mart's likely exit atop economic woes for the town's car dealers. And they both vow to improve the town's infrastructure, including water. They even agree that it makes sense to share services with neighboring towns to save money.

It's a tough call. Both O'Leary and Bartels have brought good to East Dundee. But Bartels, now available again, has the calmer voice with a clearer view of the big picture needs of this community. His vision and approach and the fact that he's a stickler for open government gives him the edge.

Jerald Bartels is endorsed.

For trustee, incumbent Rob Gorman knows his stuff and can be an effective board member when he stays focused on serving the public. Former trustee Paul VanOstenbridge will be an excellent addition to the board with his experience. Newcomer Lael Miller can be a good board member if he stays independent.as could Kathi Kalisch, a write-in. Gorman, VanOstenbridge and Miller are endorsed.