Rosemont mayoral challenger mum about platform

For Joseph Watrach, a political newcomer, challenging Rosemont's acting Mayor Bradley Stephens, a product of the Republican machine that built the town, is about giving voters a choice on April 7.

"I don't think it's an inherited position," Watrach said alluding to Stephens, who was appointed to the post after his father, Donald E. Stephens, died of cancer in 2007. "Out of competition, better things come."

Don Stephens, the region's longest-serving mayor, started Rosemont from scratch in 1956 out of a patch of garbage dumps and mob hangouts and transformed it into an entertainment and convention capital. He served as the village's only elected mayor until his death.

The younger Stephens had served on the Rosemont village board for 18 years as the senior-most trustee when he was tapped to finish his father's unexpired term.

Stephens believes he's the best candidate for the job.

"I had a great upbringing working with my dad the past 18 years prior to his death," said the 46-year-old.

Watrach is mum about his platform or supporters, and says he won't divulge any campaign information until his candidacy is assured.

Watrach also would not share his views about Stephens or comment on his policies other than saying he disagrees with the direction the village administration has taken in the past two years.

Yet, there's a curious link between the two men who have known each other for a long time and even took vacations together.

"He was at my wedding," said Stephens of his 2007 nuptials.

Yet, Stephens confesses he hasn't spoken with Watrach in a while and doesn't know what his concerns are about the village.

"I don't know what he's going to do for the community," Stephens said. "I anxiously await to hear that. We pride ourselves on the excellent city services that we've provided. I would love to hear what the problems are, if there are any."

Stephens touted his "open-door policy" and practice of addressing residents' issues in a timely fashion.

"We take care of our residents," he said. "They are important to us, and they are the ones that keep us in our jobs.

Stephens said his goal is to continue developing Rosemont as an entertainment hub outside O'Hare International Airport, and making sure venues like Rosemont Theater, Allstate Arena and Rosemont Convention Center stay productive.

Watrach acknowledges he is going up against one of the most politically connected families in the Chicago suburbs, but believes he has a shot at unseating Stephens.

"I believe there's a new movement of people who are interested in politics," he said.

After all, he added, "this town was built on a man who had unsurmountable odds."