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Campton leaders pledge communication, call for involvement

One by one or in pairs, Campton Hills residents shuffled into the Congregational United Church of Christ this week for a town-hall meeting.

Some had questions about the recent firing of Jennifer Johnsen, the first administrator in the village's nine-year history.

Others wanted to know if the trustees were going to revisit a costly lawsuit over control of 275 acres of open space in Fox Mill, the village's largest subdivision.

One man suggested an overnight parking ban while another sought answers to whether the village was going to spray for mosquitoes to battle West Nile and the Zika virus.

The first town hall meeting in Campton Hills' history provided many residents with answers, albeit along with a little frustration.

Trustees declined to comment on the specifics of Johnsen's dismissal, but shot down "rumors" of another Fox Mill lawsuit. (Trustees will study an overnight parking ban; residents said no to mosquito spraying via a failed referendum in February 2008).

The consensus that emerged from the night was a renewed pledge from trustees to communicate better and a call for residents to get more involved, such as volunteering on a commission instead of showing up at a board meeting to complain about a proposal.

Village President Harry Blecker said the village would hold more town-hall meetings going forward.

"It's a start," he said. "We have some things we have to take care of. If you really want to make the village work, don't rely on seven people (six trustees and president)."

Trustee Laura Andersen said input is welcome and encouraged.

"Our residents are our greatest resource," she said. "We have a lot of talented people ... people who are willing to talk to us and give us their opinions."

Michael Turgeon, who unsuccessfully ran as a write-in candidate for trustee in spring 2015, said trustees need to be more proactive in communicating with residents. Turgeon said mistrust is an easy label to apply but trustees deserve the benefit of a doubt.

"Perceptions becomes reality," he said. "These people have earned some of our trust - they were elected. Give them a chance. Their hearts are in the right place."

For more information, visit villageofcamptonhills.org or call (630) 584-5700.

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