A new leader for Campton Township

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Campton Township supervisor's office is on the verge of changing hands.

Two-term Supervisor Neal Anderson announced last month he would not seek re-election in April, leaving township Trustee John Kupar to run unopposed for the post.

But the transition is expected to change little in local government, according to Kupar, who said he plans to "continue the vision" of Anderson and other leaders before him.

"We want to continue on with the work he's started and the work we've done as a team," said Kupar, a township trustee since 2001.

Priorities of the next four years include continued focus on open space issues, development and water management, Kupar said.

"We have over 1,000 acres of open space," he said. "One challenge is going to be developing programs for ongoing maintenance and continued development of these sites."

As for other development, "We still have to balance our ideals with development out in the township, which is something I think we've been doing for years," said Kupar, a geologist and vice president of WRS Compass in Chicago.

His office will be supported by several familiar faces, including incumbent trustees Thomas Stutesman and Christian Boissonnas, as well as Town Clerk Richard Johansen, Highway Commissioner Sam Gallucci and Assessor Alan Rottmann, all of whom are unopposed in the election.

Also running for town board unopposed are township committeeman Greg Van Zandt and former Campton Hills Village Clerk Rebecca Lambe.

Anderson, who owns a local coffee shop and whose family has been involved with township government for decades, did not respond to questions about his departure.

In a statement issued to the press, however, he said he is "taking some time off" from politics due to his daughter's upcoming college graduation and wedding, among other commitments.

First elected township trustee 16 years ago, Anderson said his decision followed "a lot of consideration and soul-searching."

"I have enjoyed helping Campton and its residents, working with our dedicated staff and, of course, our wonderful volunteers," he said. "Campton is in my blood. I love the area we live in. Our family has a history of helping Campton. I hope we can continue that legacy."