Elk Grove Village mayor will seek 4th term

Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson on Tuesday said he's running for a fourth term for the town's top spot next year.

Johnson cited the fight against Chicago's plan to expand O'Hare International Airport, the refurbishment of the new $30 million village hall and beautification of the business park as some of the top reasons he wants residents to vote for him on April 7.

"I still enjoy being mayor," Johnson said. "I think it's a great privilege."

Johnson said that his experience serving the village for the past 12 years has given him the know-how to continue as mayor. His rapport with other elected officials at all levels of government will help the village reach its goals easier, Johnson said.

He said he's got a lot planned for the village as well. He wants to bring a summer concert series to town. And he'd like to continue to oversee the village's annual bike race, the Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove.

He said that even if he runs unopposed, he'll still mount a campaign as if he has an opponent, meaning he'll go door to door and put out at least one piece of campaign literature.

Johnson was elected in 1997 at 37, the youngest mayor in the area, he said.

If Johnson is elected again, he'll make $28,000 annually. He currently makes $20,000. He does not receive other perks like a company car, health insurance or reimbursement for phone calls or meals, he said. He works about 25 hours a week as mayor, he said.

Johnson works full time at his insurance agency, Johnson Insurance in Elk Grove Village.

He added that he doesn't intend to run for any higher office, although he's been asked to do so in the past.

"I have no desire to be anything at all, but be a mayor of Elk Grove Village," Johnson said.