Former Dist. 158 leader seeks board vacancy

It has been less than a year since Tony Quagliano relinquished his seat on the Huntley Unit District 158 school board.

Now he wants it back.

Quagliano is one of four men who are seeking appointment to the vacancy created when Shawn Green resigned earlier this month.

The others are: Huntley Park District Commissioner Paul LaFleur; William Geheren, director of sales for a publishing firm; and Keith Williams, a bus driver and former longtime teacher.

Quagliano, former board vice president, decided last year not to seek re-election because of the demands the board placed on his time.

But Quagliano says the time commitment should be less this time and that his financial background could help as the district wrestles with budget cuts.

"You might ask me why I want to go through that pain and suffering again," Quagliano said. "I'm just very leery of the economic situation that's going on throughout the state. I don't mind making those tough decisions."

Quagliano is a certified public accountant who has helped draft legislation that addressed financial issues for District 158 and other school districts.

Combine that background with the fact that he has served alongside four of six current board members, and his chances look good.

"In light of our financial situation, that expertise and knowledge would come in very handy," board member Mike Skala said, adding that he would give all the candidates a fair shot.

But Quagliano said he doesn't plan to seek re-election next year if the board appoints him to the vacancy - creating an opening for one of the other candidates if the board is seeking stability rather than short-term budget help.

LaFleur, a civil engineer for Kane County and eight year veteran of the Naval Reserve, said he would promote a well-rounded education.

"I don't want to just have a school district that turns out braniacs," LaFleur said. "At the same time, I don't want them to crank out nothing but athletes."

Geheren said he would bring a different perspective as the father of three special-needs children but that he would also serve the entire district.

"It would be very easy for me to separate what's in the best interests of my children versus the best interests of the district," Geheren said.

Both LaFleur and Geheren said they'd be open to seeking re-election.

Williams could not be reached for comment.

The board will interview the four candidates in a public meeting on April 8 before deliberating in closed session and seating the new member.