McHenry County Board Dist. 3, Republican: Wheeler, Provenzano

Voters have the luxury of choosing among five candidates for two seats in the Republican primary for McHenry County Board District 3.

The incumbent is Barbara Wheeler, who is on the finance committee and has been on the board since 2002.

Also running are Veronica Armstrong, Karen J. Tynis, S. Craig Steagall and Nick Provenzano, who was knocked out of office during last election.

Armstrong's greatest strength is also her greatest weakness. She was a tireless champion for four years for a traffic signal at Walkup and Edgewood roads in Crystal Lake. Unfortunately, her efforts often involved insulting and embarrassing board members, and left her frustrated and angry. We question whether she can work effectively with other board members, especially considering her lack of political experience.

Tynis and Steagall would bring a good perspective as local business owners but also lack political experience.

Wheeler and Provenzano are endorsed. Wheeler knows the county's finances inside and out and has strong arbitration skills to serve the needs of constituents while navigating the rocky road of politics. Provenzano knows county operations and will stretch the reach of the county board without stepping beyond its limitations.

District 3 includes Nunda Township and part of McHenry Township.