Political newcomer running for West Dundee president
Chris Nelson, a political newcomer, has announced his intention to run for village president in West Dundee, saying he has the chops to lead the village into the future.
“I think that the best way to affect change is the leadership position at the top,” Nelson said. “Also, I believe I have a lot of municipal experience that would probably differentiate me from someone exclusively coming from the private sector.”
Nelson, 41, works for Comcast as manager of government and regulatory affairs for the greater Chicago region, a job that has allowed him to interact with local towns. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration — both from Northern Illinois University.
If elected, Nelson hopes to strengthen the village’s tax base by luring businesses out of Cook County and into West Dundee where taxes are lower, and to put more emphasis on economic development.
While the Schaumburg native has never held elected office, he is president of the Grand Pointe Meadows Homeowners Association and a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Dundee Township.
Longtime Village President Larry Keller is not seeking another term, which is another reason for Nelson to aim high.
“I have a lot of respect for President Keller,” Nelson said. “I knew there would be an opening and it’s probably a good time.”