New leadership needed in Villa Park

I moved to Villa Park a few years ago and one thing has stood out in my mind the whole time.

We need new leadership on our village board. We have a great town. But it could be much better. We need forward-thinking ideas to meet the challenges of a new world.

As I recall the last four years under the leadership of Joyce Stupegia, there isn't much positive that comes to mind. There were the bitter battles between Stupegia and other board members.

I cannot recall Stupegia doing much to encourage development here in Villa Park, instead choosing to spend her time on the board trying to outlaw such terrible acts as dancing on bars.

Most recently, the question of closing Lufkin Pool has been the issue. We all know where she stood on that issue, although after a number of parents spoke eloquently at a recent board meeting, Stupegia finally figured out the right thing to do.

It's a shame she couldn't find a way to fix our roads in the last 20 years or build any new park facilities.

I can proudly say I am supporting Tom Cullerton for village president. A family man, Tom has dedicated himself to helping others in our community. Many of us have met Tom at the Lions Pancake breakfast where he helps out, or various other charity functions.

Tom has a vision for Villa Park which includes strong development, new streets and new parks. Tom was instrumental in initiating the comprehensive plan committee and in many other issues related to encouraging development in our town. Most recently, Tom proposed we consider cutting the salaries of the various village supervisors before considering laying off hardworking people we need to get the jobs done around town.

Michelle McDonald

Villa Park