Sugar Grove Village President Sean Michels to seek another term

Sean Michels is announcing his intention to run for village president of Sugar Grove in the April 6 election. Michels, who has been village president since 1999, stated that his commitment to the community, his ability to bring in new business and housing, and his fiscal responsibility are the key reasons for running for reelection.

He has championed a variety of projects during his tenure as village president. The recently completed Bliss Road and Route 47 intersection, the opening of Route 47 and I-88 interchange, and working to bring MetroNet into the community are recent projects that have made Sugar Grove a great community.

Each of these projects took a number of years to plan, finance, and construct. Michels' continuity of service over the years helped ensure these projects were completed, despite changes in administration with the other agencies involved in the projects.

Attracting new businesses and new housing has been a focus to diversify Sugar Grove's tax base. Over the years, Michels has worked hard to bring Jewel, Culvers, Ace Hardware and many other businesses to Sugar Grove to meet the requests of residents. He has also been instrumental in bringing senior housing to Sugar Grove to allow residents to age in place, without moving out of town.

With his oversight of the village budget, Sugar Grove has maintained a Standard & Poor's A+ rating.

Through his leadership, the village has maintained a balanced budget while continuously improving the road and water infrastructure within the village. In these trying times, constant review of the budget is important to avoid financial problems. Michels realizes that ensuring that Sugar Grove is fiscally responsible is important to its residents.

Michels has been active in the community since he moved into town in 1990. He has coached a variety of sports through the Sugar Grove Park District, been involved with St. Katherine Drexel, and has raised money for the Between Friends Food Pantry. As a graduate of Kaneland High School, he is committed to making the area better for all residents. Obtaining his MBA at Aurora University has given him the knowledge to be a leader for Sugar Grove for years to come. Sean and Valerie, his wife, have raised four children. After working for 20 years in banking, Sean has been working for a custom homebuilder for the last 22 years.