Green’s advocacy against Boeger not appropriate

Bruce Green’s campaign materials present his experience on the Arlington Heights Plan Commission as a reason for voters to consider him for village trustee. I have serious concerns about his recent actions as an appointed member of village government.

The commission examines requests for zoning variances, taking into consideration the facts, applying the law and coming to an objective decision.

The controversial Boeger Place project came before the commission last year. Green voted against the project, but it was ultimately recommended for approval by the Commission. My issue is not with his “no” vote (I don’t know enough about the project to be for or against), but rather with his activities outside of the commission.

Rather than honor the majority vote of the plan commission, Chairman Green went before the board to vigorously voice his personal objections to the project, something I believe is unprecedented.

Rob Sherman, an active opponent of the project, said this on his website after the project was ultimately rejected by the board: “I didn’t do it alone, though. Buffalo Grove residents Craig Horwitz and Bob Dinnerman, along with Arlington Heights Plan Commission Chairman Bruce Green, all were instrumental in generating overwhelming community opposition to the proposal.”

Government officials must remain objective about matters before them, and to recuse themselves when a conflict of interest exists. It was inappropriate for Mr. Green work publicly against the project and also to vote on it in an official capacity. At worst, I believe his actions may constitute a breach of ethics by a public official. At best, they show very poor judgment.

Some years ago, I spoke with several members of the village board regarding concerns about another zoning issue. They listened, but never gave an indication of where they stood. In fact, they refused to give an opinion when asked. That is as it should be.

I believe Mr. Green lacks the judgment and objectivity required to be a trustee, and I do not support him in this election.

Kris Solger

Arlington Heights