Endorsements: Andrew, Schnure, Smith for North Barrington board of trustees

There is a special feeling in North Barrington, a beautiful countryside community of about 3,000 sprung from the roots of the Biltmore County Club and its classic feel but also boasting the gated Wynstone Golf Course Community and the tree-shaded homes that occupy the rest of the landscape.

Controversies occasionally crop up, but they're relatively few. The village is well run and in reasonably sound financial footing, especially given its lack of commerce or industry.

Despite that general harmony, five candidates are running for three seats on the village board. We're impressed by all five and confident that any of them would be solid trustees.

Our endorsements go to incumbents Jackie Andrew and Todd Smith and to former trustee John Schnure.

Andrew sees herself as the common-sense candidate and she isn't afraid to tangle with others on the board when necessary. She raises needed questions rather than simply going along, and any governing board needs someone like her.

Smith is a collaborator who brings great thoughtfulness and dedication to the board and his skills in communication and finance are a great asset.

Schnure. a 35-year resident, has helpful experience, both as a former trustee and a current plan commissioner, and we like his good judgment.

Linda Aylward and Patricia Kalinowski are good candidates too. But they're not as experienced as the other three.