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Endorsement: Pandya for mayor of Round Lake Beach

In Round Lake Beach, acting mayor Scott Nickles is asking voters to formalize his position against a political newcomer.

The retired Chicago police officer and four-year trustee faces a challenge from local businessman Nitai Pandya.

Nickles moved to the village's top spot in October, soon after Mayor Richard Hill announced his retirement after 20 years. Hill endorsed Nickles, saying he was seen as the successor for some time. The village board confirmed the appointment.

But Pandya, a local business owner for more than 20 years, offers an intriguing alternative.

Pandya says more communication is needed between village hall and the community to create dialogue that doesn't exist now.

He said the village could have done more communication during COVID-19, including, for example, the use of virtual town halls. Making the community aware of safety standards businesses are maintaining will be essential in their post-COVID recovery, he says.

Pandya wants to make needed infrastructure improvements, such as adding sidewalks in areas where they are lacking in town and bring a medical facility and maybe a hotel to the village, depending on market conditions.

He wants to better utilize the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, maybe hosting a food fest or classic car show to attract consumers from nearby towns.

Nickles points to the village's COVID-19 response, which included tighter spending, work pods to separate staff, cross-training village employees and continuing services without interruption. He said he helped coordinate free testing for residents on village property.

He would like to create a town center with a mix of residential, business and entertainment.

Nickles could not agree to a day and time to participate in a joint candidate interview.

We think Pandya could provide more open leadership, create new communication channels and use his business skills to be a capable and innovative mayor. He is endorsed.

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