Endorsements: Barreto, Harlfinger, Huckins for Lake in the Hills board

When village trustees talk about how things have changed in Lake in the Hills, they’re not just referring to the town’s phenomenal growth. They’re also recalling a period of turmoil in village government in the 1990s when board meetings erupted into shouting and crowds packed village hall. Those days are gone, and the incumbents up for election April 9 are determined not to go back to a style they say was unproductive. Denise Barreto, Stephen Harlfinger and Robert Huckins describe an approach that focuses on addressing residents’ problems, building relationships with neighboring towns and McHenry County and keeping a good village staff in place to help with economic development, traffic congestion and other ongoing issues. Each brings particular strengths to the board: Baretto, an energetic four-year board member, focuses on the financial health of the village, which has decreased its tax levy for the past two years. Harlfinger’s nearly lifelong residency in town and 12-year tenure on the board add a valuable perspective. Huckins’ involvement with civic groups strengthens connections between constituents and the village board, where he has served for six years. Kenneth Tentler, a self-employed builder, also has entered the race, and he offers some productive, positive ideas. But Baretto, Harlfinger and Huckins have been part of an effective leadership team and should be returned.