'Old' trustees still full of new ideas for Schaumburg

On April 7th, Schaumburg residents are being given the chance to change the composition of the village's board of trustees. One challenger has come forward to assert that the incumbent trustees have been around too long and that new ideas about village operations are needed. I like new ideas and positive change; but, if dedicated and thoughtful incumbents are making "old ideas" work, then a call for change sounds hollow and lacks merit.

Consider what these "old ideas" are that have been, and are still being pursued, by the Schaumburg's incumbent trustees, including those up for re-election - George Dunham, Tom Dailly, and Mark Madej.

• Pursuing a progressive and visionary plan for the growth and development of the village while, at the same time, being very conservative on financial matters.

• Steering the village through the recent Great Recession by tightening-up on expenses and reducing employee head count - but still maintaining a high-level of service to villagers.

• Keeping promises. The trustees promised to reduce a property tax they were reluctant to levy in the first place. They've done this! The levy has been reduced for the last five years.

Thanks to the able leadership of Mayor Al Larson and the incumbent trustees, today's Schaumburg has an enviable reputation as a great place to live, to work, to do business, and to be entertained. Construction and new business development abounds. This is a village that "works."

But, there's more to be done before Schaumburg's ultimate destiny is fully realized. As a 22-year resident, I recommend that my neighbors get out, vote on April 7th, and give our incumbent trustees - George Dunham, Tom Dailly and Mark Madej - the opportunity to move the village further toward that destiny. They've worked hard in our behalf and deserve our support.

Charles F. Falk

Schaumburg