Bittersweet so long to Glendale Heights
I have always taken an interest in the communities in which I've lived. Local politics has been a long-standing passion with me. Since moving to Glendale Heights in 1988, I've served on the economic development committee, fair water rates committee and on the ordinance committee. I've watched, listened and continued to take action to help our community thrive.
In 2001 and 2005, I ran campaigns for trustee candidates and mayoral candidates. After three unsuccessful election campaigns in 1995, 1999 and 2003, I was humbled and honored to have been elected as District 3 trustee in April 2007.
In the short time that I've served as trustee I‘ve learned a great deal about so many facets of village government and management. We have an amazing group of people here with an array of talents and passion for serving their community.
After getting to know our mayor and board a little better, I feel our town will continue to operate capably. With the upcoming election fast approaching, we need to continue having experienced, concerned and passionate people serve on our village board and committees.
Residents have noticed that I have not been attending meetings or am being as responsive as in the past. Although I've been actively involved in our town, I am a private person. Now I must share something with you. The past two years have been extremely challenging for me. My health is deteriorating and as a result, I have not always been able to be available to our residents, to my supporters and to our village board and administrative team. I apologize to anyone who I may have failed. It pains me to know that your needs, phone calls, letters and e-mails may have gone unanswered. I am painfully aware of how you must feel and what you may be thinking.
This may sound a little out of character for those of you who know me well, but here goes: For the first time since 1995, I will not be a candidate in the April election. It is not fair to and not in the best interests of, the residents of Glendale Heights nor to the village board, village employees and Mayor Linda Jackson for me to continue as trustee. I will do my best to serve during the few months remaining in my term.
Words cannot adequately express the ache in my heart at having to come to this decision. I am aware that Mike Light has circulated petitions for District 3 trustee, and I wish him all the best. I really enjoy hearing about people becoming involved in wanting to help our town.
I want to take a moment to thank you for allowing me to do the best I could, while I could, in serving you as trustee. I have enjoyed my tenure and this decision has been hurtful to come to terms with.
To those of you who may not have always seen eye-to-eye with me, thank you for giving me a chance.
To those of you who supported and encouraged me, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
To those of you who walked our streets, delivered fliers, registered voters, talked with residents and attended meetings, I am grateful for your efforts, your hard work and involvement.
To those of you who believe in a higher power, please keep my wife, my children, my grandchildren, my parents, my sister, my nephews and myself, in your thoughts and prayers.
Please know that having to make this decision was not easy for me. Sometimes being stubborn does not work to one's advantage.
In closing, please accept my deepest appreciation for all the cooperation, guidance and support you have given to me. It truly means a lot to me. Thanks.
Scott A. Kibort
Glendale Heights