Cronin takes DuPage County reins

The Dan Cronin era has begun in DuPage County.

Cronin was sworn in Monday night as county board chairman during an inauguration that included him outlining his key priorities and policy agenda for next year.

“There is no question that we face a challenging time in our county's history,” said Cronin, a longtime state lawmaker who ran for chairman after three-term incumbent Robert Schillerstrom decided not to seek re-election.

Cronin said elected officials have an obligation to protect communities from the “double whammy” of a floundering economy and the state's fiscal crisis. Issues related to DuPage's population becoming older and more diverse also must be addressed.

In the short term, Cronin must name a replacement for outgoing State's Attorney Joseph Birkett and fill seven county seats on the DuPage Water Commission, which delivers Lake Michigan drinking water to more than a dozen communities.

The 51-year-old Elmhurst Republican also plans to request a performance audit of the county's expenses to gain a better understanding of DuPage's fiscal condition.

On Monday, Cronin said he wants the county to be an example of what “common sense” government is all about.

“We need to prepare for an uncertain future,” Cronin said. “I know that we can work together to make sure our fiscal house remains sound.”

Other countywide elected officials sworn in during the inauguration ceremony were Treasurer Gwen Henry, County Clerk Gary King, Sheriff John Zaruba, and Darlene Ruscitti, the regional superintendent of schools.

County board members who were sworn in are Don Puchalski, Jeff Redick, Brian Krajewski, JR McBride, John Zediker and Robert Larsen.