Endorsements: Biegel, Frusolone and Schwarze for Carol Stream village board

As one of the few communities in Illinois without a property tax, the village of Carol Stream must operate with acutely effective leadership to maintain its financial stability and the community's comfortable quality of life.

As costs of services continue to increase amid the uncertainties of a fickle economy and unreliable state government, the need for such leadership will only be more pronounced in the years ahead.

With that in mind, the candidacies of two incumbents seeking re-election to the village board are especially valuable. Greg Schwarze, 53, has served on the board since 2007. He speaks with the authority of someone who has immersed himself in the issues facing the village and yet with the enthusiasm of someone just beginning to tackle the challenges a board member faces. Likewise, Mary Frusolone, 47, a trustee since 2011, brings a long history of commitment to community activities and to the balance of costs and services so important in Carol Stream.

Two newcomers join the incumbents in seeking three positions available on the April 2 ballot. Both are capable alternatives. Stephanie Biegel, 37, is an accountant who has been active in community affairs and values the village's rare financial position. John A. Zalak, 50, is a retired Carol Stream police officer with a conspicuous affection for the community and a thorough understanding of the issues ahead it.

It is difficult to choose between them, but in the end, we lean toward Biegel, who would add a woman's perspective to a six-member governing board that, other than Frusolone, is dominated by males.

Our endorsements for Carol Stream village board, then, go to Schwarze, Frusolone and Biegel.