DuPage County Forest Preserve Commission, Dist. 6: Kotecki

Longtime incumbent Roger Kotecki of Warrenville is being challenged in the Feb. 2 primary by West Chicago Alderman Al Murphy for the Republican nod for the District 6 seat on the DuPage Forest Preserve Commission.

We endorse Kotecki, who has served on the commission since 1990 and retains his strong commitment to the job and in protecting and improving the preserves. An attorney, Kotecki rightfully can point to the district's solid financial footing and successful stewardship of its 25,000 acres and hundreds of miles of trails.

He has an excellent handle on the issues, is accessible and is not afraid to ask the tough questions.

Murphy, a hardware store owner, is a solid challenger with a passion for outdoor recreation. He says the district needs a new voice, but we're leery about his pledge to cut taxes while boosting services and access.

The winner faces Democrat Shannon Burns in November.

District 6 covers all or portions of West Chicago, Warrenville, Winfield, Wayne, Wheaton, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Bartlett, Bloomingdale. Aurora, Naperville and Roselle.