Elected to do a job, not talk about it

I have known Mark Kownick for many years and have found him to be an excellent leader. He has always been interested in improving our town and moving it forward in a positive direction.

But, Mark is not one to seek the spotlight or actively promote the great things that have been accomplished under his leadership. As Mark likes to say, he was elected to do a job, not to talk about it.

When it's time to campaign, you realize that there is a downside to this quality. While I've been hearing negativity from his opponent for years, I very rarely hear about the great strides being made in Cary.

Recently, Cary was rated the best city in McHenry County for jobs. We've also been rated 3rd best city in Illinois for young families and 7th best city for Illinois families. Cary has even been ranked the 5th safest mid-sized city in IL, and the safest in all of McHenry County.

Mark has been instrumental in collaborating with intergovernmental agencies within Cary and surrounding communities to reduce costs by collectively bidding on jobs and passing these savings to our residents. He has been active in Springfield to garner us millions in grants for road projects, and a new Metra station, to name a few. As a trustee, I have experienced his collaborative spirit in consistently reaching out to Trustees. This is in direct contrast to his opponent who has consistently refused to meet with me, the Mayor, and fellow trustees.

We need Mark to continue as our mayor, but he won't have that chance if we don't re-elect him. When I look at all the amazing things happening in Cary, from the economic development to the infrastructure improvements to the community spirit, I can't understand why we have people so constantly negative about our hometown. I love it here, and I know many of my neighbors do too.

I encourage you to join me in re-electing Mark Kownick, a doer, not a talker. We need more like Mark in government.

Ellen McAlpine

Cary Village Trustee