Endorsements: Geiser, McCarthy, Crawford for Carol Stream village board

In Carol Stream, four candidates are running for three openings on the village board. Incumbents Rick Geiser and Matt McCarthy are joined by newcomers Erik Crawford and Jeff Berger in seeking those seats.

Carol Stream, like all suburbs, has been hit hard by the economic effects of the pandemic, but leaders have worked to lessen the impact on village services, as well as aid local businesses hurt by the restrictions enacted under the pandemic. In addition to reducing certain business fees and suspending the village vehicle sticker program, the village found a way to cut $2 million from its operating budget this year.

Geiser and McCarthy, both of whom have been on the board since 2003, have recognized the need to balance financial responsibility with the needs of village residents and businesses. Geiser, in particular, has led efforts to expand and recognize diversity and inclusion in the village. Both get our recommendation.

For the third seat, Crawford and Berger are equally qualified candidates who share similar views on the issues. Crawford, an operations manager for Sound Incorporated, is a lifelong Carol Stream resident. Berger, who runs a multimedia firm, has been a resident for more than 20 years. Both have been involved as volunteers with numerous community organizations.

We give our nod to Crawford, who says the village should include mental wellness in efforts to help residents through the pandemic. That said, we are impressed with Berger's enthusiasm and perspective and urge him to continue to stay involved with the board and community.