Endorsements: Hein, Brady, Papantos for Wheeling board

Post-recession development in Wheeling has been slow but steady. The five candidates for village board recognize the need for quicker progress and see potential for several areas in town. Incumbent Bill Hein is concerned about the number of tax increment financing districts and wants to ensure the funds are used for solid ventures. As a former mayor who rejoined the board after his tenure, his knowledge of village affairs and history is indispensable. Board member Ken Brady’s background in construction gives him needed expertise for working with developers. We endorse both for another term. For the third seat, an opening created by Trustee Dean Argiris’ mayoral bid, we choose Mary Papantos. She would concentrate on filling vacant properties first, proposes reinstatement of an economic development commission, and would keep a close eye on village spending. Candidates Greg Stavros and Mary Krueger also are well-intentioned and passionate — and Krueger has worked tenaciously to familiarize herself with village issues — but Papantos’ strong understanding of municipal governance gives her the edge.