Endorsements: Newell, Stanton and Pilafas for Hoffman Estates village board.

This endorsement is a consensus opinion of the Daily Herald Editorial Board.

We feel compelled to note at the outset that among the four people seeking three open seats on the Hoffman Estates village board, Mark Mueller is the model of what one likes to see in a candidate for local government, especially a candidate facing a panel of incumbents.

He has studied all the issues thoroughly and, from the role of the Now Arena to the quality of roads and other infrastructure, can discuss every important topic facing the community with authoritative detail. A retired lieutenant from the Hoffman Estates Police Department, he has an intimate familiarity with the community and its operations. And, as important as anything, he presents his points of view with an admirable mix of passion and respect for those who may disagree.

He would make a fine village board member, and likely will someday if he continues to be involved in the community should he lose in April.

Our only hesitation, and it's a serious one, is that the incumbents facing him all can boast similar qualities, and they're blessed with a wealth of board experience.

Anna Newell, a retired senior services administrator, has been an engaged and collaborative trustee since 2007.

With three previous terms on the board, retired Cook County assistant public defender Gary G. Stanton also brings long years of service to the village and detailed insight into the issues facing it.

And, in addition to board service dating to 2011, Gary J. Pilafas brings both the expertise of a senior engineer and a long list of community volunteer experiences.

All three have been part of a leadership team that has steered Hoffman Estates through a variety of complex challenges over the years and overseen exciting and responsible business and residential development while managing a stable budget that respects and considers taxpayers. If there were reason to consider disrupting such a successful formula, Mueller is the kind of candidate who could provide it. But for now, we recommend standing with a group of proven incumbents, with the hope and expectation that other opportunities will come to make use of Mueller's energy and talents.

Newell, Pilafas and Stanton are endorsed.