Keep a good thing going in Wheeling Township

On Nov. 12, 2008 in the Daily Herald Editorial titled "Time for local candidates to prepare," the editorial staff encouraged candidates to "learn how government works ... attend board and committee meetings and take note of protocol and procedures ... that understanding will be critical for you to be a prepared, knowledgeable and informed candidate."

Under Supervisor Michael Schroeder and Trustees Kathy Penner, JoAnne Schultz, Ruth O'Connell and Mike Domrzalski, Wheeling Township has won numerous statewide awards for programs and services, fostered volunteer partnerships and intergovernmental cooperation to stretch dollars and lessen the burden on taxpayers, and has one of the lowest tax rates in Cook County.

They are the safety net for social issues and in the last year have provided 25,577 medical rides to senior citizens and those with disabilities, and a large part of their general budget funds agencies that provide human care services to needy residents. The Wheeling Township Food Pantry recorded over 3,800 visits over the last 12 months.

Now this group is being challenged by four Democratic candidates for trustee, three of whom have never attended a single board meeting. At the March 24th meeting where budgets were being discussed, not one of the Democratic candidates for trustee was present.

Let's make sure that we elect committed, knowledgeable and prepared people who have demonstrated a thorough understanding of the issues facing our township. I hope you will join me in supporting Trustees Penner, Schultz, O'Connell, and Domrzalski for re-election on April 7th.

Matt McAlpine

Arlington Heights