Rush to file for candidacy in Des Plaines

In Des Plaines, where term limits are keeping six incumbents from running for re-election, leaving an open field for people with a hunger for public office, a dozen candidates were lined up outside the city clerk's office when the doors opened at 8:30 a.m.

First in line after arriving at 7:55 a.m. was Mark Thompson, a candidate to replace Mayor Tony Arredia. Right behind him, having arrived five minutes later, was 2nd Ward Alderman Martin Moylan, also running for mayor. Michael Lake also was among the early morning filers for that office.

Fourteen people took out petitions for the mayor's office alone but not all are expected to actually run. The filing deadline is Monday, Jan. 26.

City Clerk Donna McCallister said a lottery will be conducted at the end of next week among all candidates present at 8:30 a.m. to determine first position on the ballot in the April 7 election.

While waiting for the doors to open, Thompson and Moylan joked that the big field should be a boon to the local economy, especially printers of campaign literature and newspapers.

Among others in line was Joseph Kozenczak, running for 7th Ward alderman. Chief of police from 1985 to 1990 and now a private investigator, he said he believes the city needs to hire a professional person to oversee issues related to plans for a casino. The Illinois Gaming Board last month awarded a casino license to Des Plaines.

"I felt I could add something with my background," he said of why he decided to run.

While Kozenczak may have name recognition, that wasn't a deterrent to Dan Wilson, who lives six doors away. He's been involved in a variety of civic activities but hasn't run for elected office before. Already though, he says he's knocked on the door of almost every residence in the ward. "I'm trying to make it personal," the retiree said. "I have the time; I have the interest; I think I can help."

In the 5th Ward, Jim Brookman is running for the seat currently held by his wife, Carla. He said he's heard three or four people plan to run for the seat. "It'll be a contested race. I'm going to campaign hard," he said.