Lindenhurst mayoral candidates stressing economic development
Editor's note: This story has been changed to correct the spelling of a candidate's name. The correct name is Heath Rosten.
Both mayoral candidates in Lindenhurst say economic development is a key issue for the village.
But while one is relying on his political experience to move the town forward, the other is emphasizing the opportunity for fresh ideas.
First-term Mayor Dominic Marturano is facing a challenge from local volunteer Ryan Brandes in the April 2 election.
The Daily Herald asked Marturano and Brandes about community issues and their qualifications.
Marturano called economic development the most important issue.
"We are working to recruit new businesses and also support our current businesses," said Marturano, 61, an information technology manager who was elected mayor in 2015 after serving two terms as a village trustee.
He said village hall's efforts are "already bearing fruit," citing new businesses in previously empty storefronts.
The village's switch to Lake Michigan water in late 2017 has helped attract merchants, he said.
Marturano said his leadership experience makes him the best mayoral candidate.
"As mayor of Lindenhurst for the past four years, and previously a village trustee for eight years, I'm familiar with the budget (and) the strengths and opportunities of the village," he said.
Brandes said economic development can help reduce residential fees, property taxes and utility costs.
"A more robust (tax) base can accelerate the payoff of long-term obligations and provide the flexibility to add services residents desire," said Brandes, 45, who is the deputy housing authority director in North Chicago.
Brandes also is a member of the Lindenfest committee and the Lindenhurst environmental commission.
He said his years of governmental management, his professional training and his passion for the community make him the best candidate.
"Now is the time for fresh ideas to grow our community and provide innovative approaches to issues and concerns," he said.
Marturano is leading the Lindenhurst Best Choice slate, which also features trustee candidates Dawn Czarny, Patrick John Dunham and Heath Rosten in a race for three board seats. Czarny and Dunham are incumbents.
Brandes is leading the Lindenhurst United for Change slate, which also features trustee hopefuls Stacey Kramer, Trak Patel and Casandra Slade.