Bessner seeks second term in St. Charles' Fifth Ward

Joining the tide of early entry into the municipal election season, St. Charles Fifth Ward Alderman Ed Bessner officially announced this week his intentions to seek another term in April.

Responsible growth of the city is Bessner's main campaign platform.

“I have worked with developers to ensure they are accountable and cognizant of residents' concerns,” Bessner said in a written statement. “I have been a strong proponent of beautification efforts and pedestrian-friendly environments. During my tenure, precise budgetary measures have been put in place that reflect the current economic environment.”

Indeed, though the city is expecting to finish the budget year with a slight deficit, current city council members fought for a series of budget cuts, including a yearlong wage freeze for all city employees last year. Bessner said he has tried to maintain a balance between budget cuts and city services.

“We have kept our budget in check through precise, targeted cuts and elimination of positions through attrition and not layoffs,” Bessner said. “We have kept the level of services that our residents expect and deserve at an optimal level.”

Key budget issues for all St. Charles aldermen seeking re-election this year will involve the potential for utility rate increases next year as well as the potential creation of a new stormwater management fee to address chronic flooding problems. Aldermen also created a new alcohol tax this past year about which several business owners were not pleased.

Bessner and his wife, Sue, have only lived in St. Charles since 2002. During that time he's served on the Traditions at Harvest Hills Homeowners Board and on the St. Charles Plan Commission before becoming an alderman.