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Endorsements: Koch, Takaoka and Schenk for Vernon Hills village board

The candidates for Vernon Hills village board bring a wide range of backgrounds, experience and civic involvement to the table, creating a vibrant field of candidates vying for three seats.

On April 6, voters will choose among six candidates. There are two incumbents - Thom Koch, a village trustee since 1993, and Craig Takaoka, who is seeking a second term - and four challengers: Don Kathan, who works for the U.S. government in housing and urban development; Michael Schenk, a multiunit restaurant franchise owner; Catherine "Katie" Sultan, a project manager for CVS health; and Army veteran Christopher Kelly.

Kelly declined to participate in endorsement interviews or to fill out a candidate questionnaire. The five other candidates displayed impressive credentials and a commitment to the village.

Whoever wins on April 6 will find the village in strong financial shape despite the pandemic. But challenges still lie ahead.

Incumbents Koch and Takaoka tout a long list of accomplishments, pointing to the village's financial health and a recent assistance program valued at $250,000 for hard-hit restaurants. They have the experience to help guide the village through the aftermath of the pandemic, choose a new village manager and see projects such as the massive Hawthorn Mall redevelopment project through. Both deserve that chance.

We found much to admire in Schenk, Kathan and Sultan, but give Schenk the edge for his independence and his ability to bring a fresh new voice to the board. He has a strong grasp of village issues, and he led the successful 2018 referendum campaign for Hawthorn Elementary District 73. He would be an asset to the village board.

Koch, Takaoka and Schenk are endorsed.

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