Letter: Candidate represents community's core values

Naperville was established in 1831. It may be difficult to believe, but that's six years before Chicago was founded. While Naperville may be one of the most populous communities in Illinois, it's often thought of as a small town. As you walk down Main Street, enjoying the River Walk or a summer concert at Naper Settlement, you will undoubtedly pass people who have lived here for generations.

My brothers and I went to Elmwood, Lincoln Jr. High and Naperville Central High School. We played park district soccer, park district baseball, and were Cub Scouts. As children, we participated in Safety Town by riding our big-wheels in the Memorial Day Parade, which at the time was led by Officer Pradel.

Our experience as kids formed who we are today. I say this because, I believe those of us who have benefited so much from what Naperville has to offer owe it to our community to lead.

That's exactly what Scott Wehrli is doing. As a local business owner, he has been deeply involved in many parts of Naperville for decades. He serves on the school boards for North Central College and Marmion Academy.

Lastly, Scott was appointed by Mayors' Macrane, Pradel, and Chirico to the Naperville Liquor Commission, where he's served 29 consecutive years.

Naperville was built on four core values: Family Education, Economic Development, and Safety and it's the responsibility of our leaders to create opportunities for all residents. Without a doubt, the needs of our citizens are different today than they were 40-50 years ago. That's exactly what Scott represents. He stands for a modern vision forward, but with an important connection to our past.

It is an honor to call Scott a friend and mentor. He is the leader we need now and for years to come.

Derek S. McDaniel

Naperville