Endorsement: Levin for Elmhurst mayor

Three longtime aldermen are vying for the job of Elmhurst mayor after current Mayor Steven Morley announced he would not be seeking reelection.

The candidates - Michael Bram, Scott Levin and Mark Mulliner - represent a long history of working on behalf of Elmhurst residents, whether it was to tackle the issue of flooding, keep tabs on the runway rotation plan for O'Hare International Airport or adjust financial targets to align with expected reduction of sales tax revenues caused by pandemic restrictions. All three candidates have worked on committees to drill down for solutions to bring to the council.

Alderman Levin brings the best complement of experience and leadership, and is endorsed. His leadership will help Elmhurst navigate the tough job of coming out of the pandemic, while making sure services to residents are maintained and social issues such as diversity and equality are addressed.

Levin has been a lawyer, litigator and mediator for 35 years and before that, has 10 years' experience with a state agency. He served as acting Elmhurst mayor for six months preceding Morley's term, has chaired three committees and is vice chair for finance committee.

To usher Elmhurst out of the pandemic's grip and prepare for the next such crisis, Levin plans for fully funded budget reserves, as well as strong relationships with key partners including businesses, the hospital and university, chamber and other governmental agencies.

His top infrastructure goals are stormwater, wastewater treatment plant and the police facility.