Newcomer Lawrence leading in early votes in Carpentersville board race
Newcomer Diane Lawrence was ahead of three incumbents Tuesday in the race for three seats on the Carpentersville village board, according to Kane County's early unofficial voting results.
Trustees Pat Schultz, Kevin Rehberg and Ginger Stephens are also seeking re-election.
Unofficial results showed Lawrence had 242 early votes. Rehberg and Schultz received 188 and 186 votes, respectively, and Stephens had 185.
Hoping to provide the village with a fresh pair of eyes, Lawrence says her focus is on improving communication between the residents and the village, especially public safety departments. She also wants the village to lower its sales tax rate, diversify its economic portfolio and offer incentives for redevelopment projects at existing vacant buildings.
Rehberg, who was first appointed to the board in 2012, wants to improve Carpentersville's image. He also says the best way to lower the property tax burden on residents and provide some relief from increased pension obligations is to grow the village's sales tax base.
Seeking a third term, Schultz said she supports ongoing park renovation projects and wants to hold more community events. She also believes the village has made significant progress in allotting more resources toward economic development.
Stephens, a one-year incumbent, believes the village board needs to continue budgeting conservatively and seeking new revenue sources. She, too, wants to bring residents together through various events and activities.