Roger Byrne for Vernon Hills village president

Four years ago, when Roger Byrne was elected to his seventh term as Vernon Hills' village president, he said it would likely be his last. In 2020, encouraged by friends, residents and village board members, however, Byrne threw his hat into the ring once more.

He clearly deserves another term.

Byrne is running on his record and the financial stability the village enjoys even as the pandemic stretches on. Vernon Hills has a Triple-A bond rating, more than $25 million in reserves to weather these tough financial times and no village property tax. The $250 million redevelopment of Hawthorn Mall, a key part of the village's commercial base, is under way, and Byrne points to nearly 4 million square feet of retail as signs of the village's commercial health.

Byrne also cites measures to help hard-hit restaurants during the pandemic. The village board agreed to eliminate license fees and abate a 1% food and beverage tax for qualifying restaurants.

Byrne notes that Vernon Hills was a pioneer in broadcasting meetings on local cable, and officials have continued to make improvements in making information available to residents.

Byrne faces a challenge this year from attorney Brian Lohse. Lohse, however, declined to meet with our editorial board or to fill out a questionnaire that would have given voters a look at what his candidacy offers or why they should consider him over Byrne.

Bryne has the experience to help Vernon Hills emerge from the pandemic. He takes pride in projects that have and continue to shape the village's identity, including the opening of Vernon Hills High School in 2000. And after 28 years as village president, he still speaks of the passion he has for the office — one he deserves to retain.