No matter who you support in BG, vote

In this Buffalo Grove election we have incumbents and challengers, which makes for a meaningful election. All the candidates have impressive professional backgrounds. They sincerely want to serve, and care about the whole community and not any particular issue.

Some candidates have more experience and village involvement, while others may have a valuable fresh perspective. As citizens we must each evaluate what type of leaders or mix of leaders we want. We need leaders who will act based on what they each believe is in the best interest of the entire community, based on the available facts and who we believe will be responsive to all of our citizens.

Different leaders have their own approaches. We need to take into consideration many factors including professional background, village experience, approach to decision making and seeking community input, new perspectives, leadership style and views on issues of importance to the community.

The bottom line is that this election is not about any serious disagreement on issues but rather about choosing the best leaders and decision-makers to lead our community at this time. All agree economic development is important and providing good services in a fiscally responsible manner is critical. The golf course development was withdrawn so it is not an election issue.

This election is not about change in direction but whether we want some change in leadership.

I simply urge all residents to evaluate all of the candidates and to vote. All too often a small percentage of our residents come out to vote in municipal elections. In that regard I am hoping for a change we all should embrace - getting as many residents to participate as possible.

I love Buffalo Grove and hope you do, too. Let's make maximum participation in this election just another reason to love our community.

Elliott Hartstein

Buffalo Grove