Outgoing Lindenhurst mayor proud of team approach
When questions arose about a proposed development on Route 45 north of Grand Avenue, Lindenhurst resident Susan Lahr was among those who didn't think the public was getting all the answers - so she ran for mayor.
"The whole thought was there was a lot of stuff our community didn't know about," said Lahr, who was elected convincingly in 2007 and has served eight years in the top village post. "That was really troublesome on a fundamental level to me."
The Village Green project never materialized, but since taking office the corporate executive opened the door to transparency and used a business model to streamline government, cut spending and focus on economic development.
Lahr's tenure ends Monday, when she attends her last meeting. A reception and ceremony is scheduled for 6 to 7 p.m. at the village hall, 2301 E. Sand Lake Road.
Her successor is longtime resident and village Trustee Dominic Marturano, who ran unopposed last month.
Lahr has lived in town for 16 years and plans to stay. She served six years on the Millburn Elementary District 24 school board before deciding to run for mayor and said two municipal terms were enough time to understand the operation, identify areas to fix and implement changes to make local government more responsive and accessible to residents.
Politicians, she said, sometimes have big egos about what they can do, but it has never been the "Susan Show" for her.
"I always viewed this as it's about service, it's not about me. After two terms, I felt it was appropriate to step away," she said. "You just need fresh ideas. Someone else can come in and build upon what you have done."
Lahr said her biggest accomplishment was creating a "strong team approach" to improve and streamline village operations with an emphasis on service.
"We've dealt with a number of tough issues over the past eight years. But, hopefully, everyone can attest to the fact we addressed things respectfully and tried hard to find workable solutions for all involved," she said.
Village Administrator Matt Formica credits Lahr with leading a multiyear process to apply business principles to government. Annual operating costs have been reduced by $1.6 million and the moves were recognized in a 2010 case study by the Illinois Policy Institute, he said.
The village budget of about $9 million has been balanced for six consecutive years.
With the financial house in order, an economic development program including incentives has been established.
In early March, the village announced a new Nissan auto dealership would be built. Six other potential projects are under discussion, according to Lahr.
One of her biggest achievements has been the successful pursuit of Lake Michigan water.
Local construction will begin this spring, and lake water is expected to flow in 2017.
One cloud has been the unsuccessful attempt to locate a 132-bed hospital in the village, although Lahr doesn't regard it as the one that got away.
The proposal most recently was twice denied by state authorities.
Lahr said she will now focus volunteer time on food pantries or animal shelters.
"I do not have any disappointment or feel there is unfinished business," she said.