Gieser ready to challenge Carol Stream mayor

There is a not-so-new face throwing his hat into the ring to become Carol Stream mayor in the April election.

Longtime resident and two-term trustee Rick Gieser confirmed Wednesday he will challenge incumbent Frank Saverino, who is completing his first term and has said he will run for re-election.

Gieser said his decision had nothing to do with Saverino's performance. He said it is something he always wanted to do.

"Growing up in Carol Stream, it has been a goal of mine," he said. "I felt, after serving eight years on the board, it would be the natural time."

Gieser called Saverino Tuesday morning to inform him of his decision. Gieser said his eight years as trustee has prepared him for the village president's gig.

He said his background in public relations will help in two areas Gieser said are of the utmost importance: communicating and listening.

"Right now, one of the major things is talking to residents about their concerns," he said. "I am listening and want to hear how they perceive Carol Stream."

Saverino said he was surprised to hear Gieser had jumped into the race.

"I thought he would wait until I had one more term in and I thought that would have been his time but it's a free country," he said. "I worked hard the last 10 years (as trustee and president) and I think it will pay off."

Saverino said he is ready for the challenge.

"I think you could ask the people how I have done but I think I have been an excellent mayor," he said. "There is not one blemish in my six years as a trustee or four as president. I've never had a fundraiser, I don't spend the village's money. I have no personal agenda other than to make this town better than when I found it."

In 2007, Saverino rode an endorsement from previous village president Ross Ferraro to 55 percent of the vote in a win over Thomas Garvey.

Garvey has also picked up a nominating petition but has not indicated which race he will join. To be placed on the ballot, potential candidates must get at least 144 signatures and file before 5 p.m. Dec. 20.