Why change what works for Bartlett?
The April 7 mayoral election in Bartlett is extremely important. In talking to friends and neighbors, I am amazed at how little is known about what is at stake.
For starters, Bartlett is one of the few Illinois communities not in debt! Not only that, our 2009-2010 budget is down 2.4 percent. In fact, there are no increases in taxes or reduction in village services in the new budget that Sherry helped craft!
What more could we ask for? In this time of global financial crisis, Bartlett is governed in a fiscally conservative, non-political manner; we have no problems regarding conflict of interest; no scandals; no hidden agendas. Electing responsible, accountable and readily available officials is the goal in this election.
We have an excellent candidate in Sherry Bormann. She has done an excellent job as trustee. Her knowledge and handling of the issues affecting Bartlett have been proved.
Sherry Bormann supported us in our fight to hold U-46 accountable to the residents of Bartlett. She never dropped the ball or shied away from hot topic issues. As trustee, Sherry knows to manage a $50 million-plus budget.
Now, I hear over and over what a nice guy Mike Kelly is, and indeed, he is a good man. He has a great family, five lovely kids (who, by the way, did not go through the U-46 schools), is always willing to help out with the Lions, the seniors, food and clothing drives, etc.
I am in no way minimizing the importance of volunteering. But Bartlett needs an individual who has managed a budget, governed a city, passed laws and represented our village on a regional and national level. Sherry has proven she is eminently capable of carrying out the duties and responsibilities this job requires.
I think Mike has done an admirable job with Hanover Township and the volunteer organizations. Honestly, I think that is where he shines. But the Village of Bartlett needs an individual with governing experience to keep Bartlett non-political, safe and in the black.
Janine Pawlus
Bartlett