Alderman listens to all in Geneva

Craig Maladra is running for re-election as 5th Ward alderman in the city of Geneva. We are residents of Geneva's 5th Ward, and Mr. Maladra is one of our aldermen. Thus we are interested in his candidacy for re-election.

As constituents of Alderman Maladra, we have had several conversations with him concerning the issues of both our 5th Ward and Geneva as a whole. We have found Alderman Maladra to be a thoughtful and considerate man who educates himself on the details of Geneva's issues. In the past, we have not always agreed with Alderman Maladra's positions, but we have always felt that he listened to and respected our points of view.

Geneva has some important decisions to make in the near future. Alderman Maladra recognizes the challenges of The East State Street corridor, the changes in housing demands and the fluctuating retail market.

East State Street has vacant properties that need to be filled with vital businesses. The Baby Boom generation is retiring and, like us, wants to stay here in Geneva and our young people wish to buy their first homes here. In addition, our thriving downtown retail stores need to continue to adjust to the rapid growth of online shopping.

We urge the voters of Geneva's 5th ward to join us in re-electing Alderman Maladra.

Carolyn and Fred H. Zinke

Geneva