Endorsements: Hannigan, Harrington, Gohl for Barrington Hills trustee
Barrington Hills may be best known for its rolling hills, five-acre minimum lots and equestrian-friendly atmosphere, but in recent years it’s also gained a reputation as a community whose leaders are often at odds with their neighbors, their residents and one another. That environment not surprisingly has given rise to a heated contest for three seats on the village board. The race includes five candidates well-versed in the issues and passionate about the village, but two in particular stand out. Colleen Konicek Hannigan, an attorney in private practice, calls out the village for excessive spending on legal fees and offers a vision for bringing more civility to village proceedings. Michael Harrington, president of an investment firm, brings a needed financial background and stresses the importance of improving communication between the board and the citizens it serves. Experience and institutional knowledge give three-term incumbent Fritz Gohl, a retired businessman, a slight edge over David Stieper, an outspoken critic of the village’s administration, and Kelly Mazeski.