Endorsements: Steffen, Powell, Cordova and Ortiz for Elgin City Council

This endorsement is a consensus opinion of the Daily Herald Editorial Board.

Elgin is never short of excellent candidates for City Council. This year is no exception.

Nine candidates are competing for four, 4-year terms: incumbents Tish Powell, John Steffen and Rose Martinez and challengers Diana Alfaro, Ismael Cordova, Tia Aagesen, Marcus Banner, Karin Jones and Anthony Ortiz.

Steffen is a veteran council member who may not talk a lot at council meetings but says a lot with the words he chooses. With reliable fiscal conservative Toby Shaw leaving the council, residents can look to Steffen to be a consistent voice of reason.

Powell is another strong candidate. A 12-year council veteran, she is an important voice in the ongoing issue involving the police department and allegations of inequitable treatment of Black and Brown people.

Among the challengers, we're most intrigued by two.

Cordova is only 26 but has the kind of life experience that could be very helpful on the council. Cordova, who identifies as queer, has experienced homelessness in Elgin but managed to finish school, get a college degree, a job and a home. Cordova also chaired the citizens committee that is looking at the issue of racial profiling by police.

What a powerful voice Cordova's could be as Elgin gets a handle on the issue of homelessness in a meaningful way.

Ortiz is running a second time, having gained experience as the chairman of the city's police and fire commission and as director of operations for the Kane County State's Attorney's Office. We're impressed by his growth since his first run for City Council, as we continue to be impressed by his earnestness.

Were it not for the level of competition here, we are confident the remaining candidates could serve the city well.

Martinez has done a fine job on the council, but we feel Ortiz has earned his place at the table.

Steffen, Powell, Cordova and Ortiz are endorsed.