Stark in Batavia Ward 4

Daily Herald Editorial Board

Newcomers Susan Stark, Edward Tousana and Jamie Saam are vying for the open seat in Ward 4. All possess an enthusiasm for the city and an appreciation of its people and their volunteerism. Stark, although a more recent resident of the community, appears to have quickly come up to speed on getting involved, serving on the historic preservation commission for the city, the new streetscape committee and the ACCESS and fireworks committees. Saam has an interesting idea about trying to persuade some existing businesses to move to downtown Batavia — and drawing their clientele with them — to give the downtown a shot in the arm. Tousana, past president and vice president of Batavia United Way, is a likable addition to the mix and has the benefit of living in Batavia for 43 years. He knows the town. He’s volunteered on projects to make life better. Stark and Saam both agree downtown redevelopment/revitalization is the No. 1 issue facing the city. Issue 1A could be the city pursuing crime-free rental housing ordinances. Stark’s experience as an Elgin landlord could be valuable, as well as her thoughts that it may be absentee landlords who present more of a problem. Stark is endorsed.