Solid finances earn endorsement for Streamwood incumbents

Streamwood Village President Billie D. Roth, 57, faces her first contested race in 16 years. Trustee Jason Speer, 33, is challenging Roth in the middle of his first term because he believes she has too much power. He says Roth keeps tight control over information and sets policy, a role he believes lies with trustees. He says he would encourage more independent thinking, set up more council committees and encourage more outreach with residents and staff. Speer also wants to work more with officials outside Streamwood and push a "crime-free housing ordinance" that would give the village avenues to pressure landlords with problem tenants.

Roth, who has been clerk, trustee and mayor over 28 years, says Speer is frustrated because he has been unable to convince a board majority to support all his ideas. We believe Speer's ideas have merit. However, Roth notes the village has built a reserve fund that amounts to 44 percent of the budget. Unlike many other suburbs, Streamwood has not had layoffs and recently had its bond rating upgraded.

Roth can and should improve hers and Streamwood's accessibility. She could start by televising board meetings. But her solid financial stewardship deserves praise and weighs heavily at this time. Roth's experience is useful in a tough economy and she is endorsed.

Not surprisingly, Roth is supporting the three incumbents for trustee: Michael H. Baumer, 52, a trustee since 2004; William J. Carlson, 79, a 20-year trustee, and William W. Harper, 58, a 20-year trustee. They, too, deserve credit for the village's sound finances and are endorsed.

They are challenged by Eric Cameron, 44, a security firm sales agent; Richard T. Janiec, 64, a retired airline supervisor and current park commissioner and Michelle A. Nabor, 55, a soon-to-retire Streamwood fire department secretary. Any of knowledgeable challengers, who raise concerns about crime, winter parking rules and openness, could make fine trustees.