Listener cares about results, not recognition

Naperville is lucky to have four great candidates for City Council this year, but I want to take a moment to talk about one who some people may not know as well — not because he isn’t doing the work, but because he’s always been more focused on getting things done than getting recognition.

Ashfaq Syed was a familiar face to me at community events and in local organizations over the years (he’s everywhere.), but I just assumed he was an engaged citizen. It wasn’t until I got to know him through the Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force (NEST) that I realized just how much he has been doing behind the scenes. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his dedication to our city and the environment is unmatched.

Ashfaq would be a fantastic addition to the City Council. He listens, collaborates and follows through — qualities we need in our city leaders.

With Naperville facing critical decisions on sustainability — especially the proposed 20-year, $2 billion energy contract extension — we need leaders who will advocate for cleaner, more cost-effective solutions. As a board member of Accelerate Climate Solutions and an active member of NEST, Ashfaq has already been working on real climate solutions for Naperville. He understands that clean energy isn’t just about protecting the environment — it’s about lowering costs, improving public health and keeping our city forward-thinking and competitive.

Ashfaq will push for a Climate Action Plan, invest in electric vehicle infrastructure and prioritize sustainable, future-proofed development — all to ensure Naperville thrives for years to come. I hope to see Ashfaq Syed elected alongside Ian Holzhauer, Benny White and Mary Gibson. Together, they would bring the thoughtful leadership Naperville needs.

On April 1, let’s vote for a City Council that works for a sustainable Naperville and a stronger, healthier future for all of us.

Theresa Hus

Naperville