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Endorsement: Darch for Barrington village president

At one time, it looked like Karen Darch would run uncontested for a third term as Barrington village president. But then objections to nominating petitions knocked a slate of trustee candidates including Michael Kozel off the ballot for village board. Kozel decided to run as a write-in candidate, but for village president instead of trustee. That he’s enlivened the race there is no doubt. The small business owner is energetic and opinionated and bubbles over with ideas to improve the central business district. Frankly, he would have been an interesting and provocative trustee candidate. But he fails to make the case for removing Darch, who gives of herself to near exhaustion on behalf of the village of Barrington. Does Barrington have some challenges when it comes to re-energizing the vibrancy of the downtown? Certainly, but so does virtually every other suburb making its way through what has been a tough business climate. The village has had some successes in economic development under Darch’s leadership. While Kozel has some thoughts worthy of consideration, Barrington’s primary obstacle has been a slow economy, not a faulty plan.

Darch, meanwhile, is an articulate representative of the community. Beyond that, she’s an intelligent leader who isn’t afraid to make the tough calls and is sensitive to the public’s needs and interests. We haven’t agreed with Darch on every issue, but we’ve never doubted her good sense and unwavering commitment to Barrington and endorse her re-election.

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