Czech made progress in Winfield

Winfield officials have invested $5 million in water mains, automatic water meter reading, roads and other infrastructure in the last four years. They also have balanced the budget. But agreement that these are successes does not translate into harmony. Incumbent Village President Rudy Czech faces challenges from two sitting trustees and the president of West Chicago Community High School District 94.

Deborah Birutis, supported by the Winfield United group that propelled Czech to the top spot four years ago, says her financial background and open schedule means she can be an unpaid full-time executive for the village. Angel Oakley, appointed trustee in October, has put together a slate and stresses her qualifications as someone who can sell Winfield to potential new businesses. Tony Reyes, who is not seeking re-election on the District 94 school board, believes the village is dysfunctional under poor leadership and has missed opportunities to bring more tax revenue to town.

With so many critics, we wonder about Czech's effectiveness. Even more, we have reservations about his ability to build consensus and work with opponents. But we also like the forward movement. These projects aren't sexy, but they're important. And they happened on his watch. For that reason, Czech is endorsed.

In the trustee race, which drew eight candidates for three seats, we back incumbent Jack Bajor and newcomers Jay Olson and OnDrew Hartigan. Bajor's insight as a former public works director is valuable. Hartigan's frequent meeting attendance and work on the Riverwalk Commission and Olson's service on the Plan Commission give each a solid foundation and municipal experience. Erik Spande and Tim Allen also are worthy candidates. Incumbent Joel Kunesh did not offer specific ideas for the town's toughest issues. Challengers Walter Powrozek and Joe DiNicolo also are running.