Residents need better answers

I’m dismayed by your endorsement of Ruben Pineda for mayor of West Chicago.

I am a resident of West Chicago and a journalist. You can find my reporting at Borderless Magazine and WBEZ Chicago.

When I was reporting on the ongoing health effects from Kerr McGee factory radiation, Mr. Pineda told me, “I’m not aware of anybody who was ill from the factory.” He added that if there were cases, that would be subject to client attorney privilege. Meanwhile, I spoke with tens of people who have ongoing health issues that they believe came from being exposed to radiation from the factory, especially as children. All lawsuits invoking client attorney privilege ended decades ago.

Mr. Pineda does not give me confidence in his leadership when the best he can do is say, “It’s all taken care of. You don’t have to worry about anything.” West Chicagoans want real answers.

To be fair, I have not had all negative experiences with City Hall. There are some very competent people in the city government who deserve to continue serving. But it’s time for Mr. Pineda to leave.

Your endorsement mentioned that he has the “slight edge” because of his experience as alderman and mayor. Experience is certainly a factor. But there also comes a time when being entrenched in a position of power for so long gets to your head and you believe you can do things with no accountability.

Your publication’s endorsement shows a failure to do your homework.

Liuan Huska

West Chicago