Endorsement: Kelly for Bartlett president

Bartlett, which soon will see its fourth president at the helm in four years, needs a break from the drama. Catherine Melchert retired in 2009 following a long, stable tenure. Mike Kelly, who replaced her, abruptly resigned in November 2011. Mike Airdo, who replaced Kelly, said from the start he would not run in 2013, and his administration has been beset by backstabbing. Now in April, a fourth president will be elected. Of the three candidates for village president, Patricia Kelly is best positioned to lead Bartlett out of the chaos. Kelly, a local attorney, (no relation to Mike Kelly) was appointed to the board less than a year ago. She speaks up at meetings and has not always agreed with Airdo, showing an independent mind. We’re also impressed that she’s standing behind her vote for the utility tax — it’s an unpopular tax to be sure, but she’s not running from her vote and that shows some character. Also running are Kevin Wallace, a businessman and former chairman of the chamber of commerce, and Ted Lonis, who is chairman of the Wayne Township Democrats. Kelly is endorsed.