Support your local leaders

As one election draws to a close, I can't help but think of the impending impeachment trials and the next round of elections poised on the horizon and how important they will be.

With shrinking tax dollars available to our communities, we need local politicians and leaders who are advocates for the citizens of each community and strong voices for our people. As a business owner in two local communities - Carol Stream and West Chicago - I am proud to say that we have such leadership through Mayor Frank Saverino in Carol Stream and Mayor Mike Kwasman in West Chicago.

Throughout these past years I've had many opportunities to work with both men. However, two particular incidents come to mind.

Last summer just after the awful flooding took place, I attended a Carol Stream village board meeting where many residents had questions and concerns. Each resident was listened to with such compassion and every flooding issue addressed with patience and sincerity, a tone set by Mayor Saverino. In West Chicago, I witnessed the same dedication to its citizens by creating many opportunities for businesses such as mine to enter West Chicago. Mayor Kwasman, his staff and the entire council have been enthusiastic supporters of our family business since we came to West Chicago more than four years ago, and we thank them. West Chicago is a growing community thanks to the dedication and guidance of Mayor Kwasman and his team.

I urge each and every resident of these two great communities to get and out vote this next spring, and enthusiastically support our local leaders who have the drive to keep both Carol Stream and West Chicago on track despite what's going on at the state level.

Jerry Morelli

owner, Augustino's Rock and Roll Deli

Carol Stream and West Chicago