Editorial: Bullwinkel for Villa Park village president

• Article

With Tom Cullerton's election to the Illinois Senate, a two-way battle has emerged to replace him as Villa Park village president in the April 9 election. Trustee Deborah Bullwinkel, finishing her first term on the village board, is opposed by former Villa Park police chief John Heidelmeier. Bullwinkel was the top vote-getter four years ago when she was first elected, and we can see why. She has detailed ideas for what she says will continue to move Villa Park forward, including ideas on how to spur economic development, and she intends to lead the discussion on a strategic plan. A 44-year-old self-employed communications consultant, she has the background to be a good communicator to the residents, something she already is known for on the village board. Heidelmeier, 50, was chief for two years before he and the village agreed to part ways in January 2012. Neither side will comment why. Before that he was a longtime officer in town. While he does have some specific ideas regarding the police department (as does Bullwinkel), his plans for economic development and other issues facing the community are more limited at this time, as he says he wants to develop "a shared pool of ideas." While that sounds inclusive, we believe he should develop a more detailed vision first while seeking election.