Michael Ontiveroz: 2025 candidate for Glendale Heights village president

Bio

Office Sought: Glendale Heights village president

City: Glendale Heights

Age: 61

Occupation: Home inspection

Previous offices held: None

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? Also, what makes you the best candidate for the position?

I am running for village president of Glendale Heights because our community deserves leadership that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and responsible growth. I am committed to ensuring that our local government reflects the needs and aspirations of all residents by enhancing infrastructure, supporting businesses, and fostering a culture of professionalism and respect.

What motivates me the most is the need for real change. Under the current leadership, we have seen troubling issues including two felony charges against the current village president, multiple lawsuits resulting in over $500,000 in settlements, and a toxic workplace culture that led to the resignation of three key department heads. Glendale Heights deserves better.

With my management experience, my ability to listen, and my willingness to think outside the box, I will restore civility, respect, and teamwork in our local government. As a collaborative leader, I will work closely with trustees to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency, always putting the interest of the residents first.

What is the most serious issue your community will face in coming years and how should leaders respond to it?

In addition to restoring citizens' trust in village government, shattered by years of scandal and negative media attention, I believe we must ensure the Glendale Heights Senior Center is on solid financial footing so it can continue serving residents for decades to come.

Leaders should respond by prioritizing transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community-driven solutions, such as seeking partnerships, grants, and responsible budgeting, rather than placing additional burdens on seniors.

How would you describe the state of your community's finances? What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years? Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed?

Glendale Heights is in a strong financial position with a healthy General Operating Fund with almost $37 million, and was recently given a solid Aa3 credit rating by Moody's. Maintaining this financial stability should remain a top priority, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively.

Given the outlook, the top priorities for spending over the next few years should focus on:

• Infrastructure Upgrades — Continuing investments in water and sewer lines, as well as road resurfacing, are essential to prevent costly emergency repairs in the future.

• Public Safety — Ensuring the police, and emergency services have the resources to keep the community safe.

• Senior Services — Keeping the Senior Center accessible and affordable, as well as exploring funding alternatives to avoid placing financial burden on the senior residents.

• Economic Development — Encouraging business growth and revitalization efforts.

As for areas that may need to be curtailed, it would be wise to review discretionary spending and ensure that all programs are delivering tangible benefits to residents.

What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address? Why and how should it be paid for? Conversely, during these uncertain economic times, what project(s) can be put on the back burner?

Prioritizing water and sewer infrastructure is crucial, especially in areas prone to flooding. The village has a long-term infrastructure plan that outlines phased improvements over multiple years to ensure budgeted funds are used effectively while seeking additional grants from county, state, or federal programs. At the moment, I am not aware of any projects that would hamper our financial outlook both short-term or long-term.

Describe your leadership style and explain how you think it will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board.

I have a thoughtful, collaborative, consensus-driven leadership style. I feel this is exactly what our village government needs in order to turn the corner from the divisive politics of the past.

I will emphasize teamwork and open communications with trustees, staff, and residents. My style will be particularly helpful in attracting new business to Glendale Heights.

Business have been, quite frankly afraid to open up in Glendale Heights because of the relentlessly negative media coverage of scandal in village government. I will be Glendale Heights' top cheerleader in bringing desirable retail businesses back in town.

I will personally meet with any business considering relocation to Glendale Heights to educate them on what makes our town attractive. On the village board, I will turn the page by treating every elected official with respect and courtesy. My leadership will create a culture of professionalism, efficiency, and respect ensuring Glendale Heights moves forward with unity and purpose.

What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?

The Glendale Heights Fest is one of the most iconic events held each year at Camera Park. Camera Park is the largest park in Glendale Heights and is located in the center of town attracting thousands from all over Cook and DuPage counties.

Currently the fest is only four days. I propose to expand the Glendale Heights Fest to five days that would boost community engagement and economic activity. It would give families more flexibility to attend, provide vendors with an extra day of business, and help mitigate the impact of bad weather.

Additionally, a longer festival could allow more diverse programming such as a community appreciation night or special events for seniors and veterans.