Lindenhurst mayoral candidates disagree on hiring an economic director
Lindenhurst's mayoral candidates disagree on the need for a village economic development director.
Challenger Ryan Brandes thinks an economic chief could help lure businesses and housing developers to town. Mayor Dominic Marturano doesn't see the need to add to the municipal payroll.
Brandes and Marturano will face off for the mayor's chair April 2.
Lindenhurst's economic success is shaping up to be a key issue in the race. In interviews with the Daily Herald, both candidates voiced concern about empty storefronts in town and the need to broaden the municipal tax base.
Brandes said the village should hire a full-time economic development director who has the training and contacts "to showcase Lindenhurst as an attractive destination for new or enhanced commercial and residential opportunities."
New businesses and houses could reduce the financial burden of taxes and utility fees on current residents, he said. Economic development also could reduce the need to borrow money to pay for infrastructure repairs, Brandes said.
"This is an investment in the community and shows interested parties that the village is committed to growth," said Brandes, the deputy housing authority director in North Chicago.
Although village officials acknowledged $75,000 to pay an economic director has been included in past budgets, they said the position isn't in this year's spending plan. Brandes said the village should spend more money to hire a director if needed.
Marturano, who was elected mayor in 2015 after two terms as a trustee, said he doesn't think hiring an economic director is necessary. He said Lindenhurst officials have saved residents money by cutting village personnel over the years, and he doesn't think this is the time to reverse course.
"Lindenhurst is a low-cost municipality," Marturano said. "We continue to look at what other communities are doing, but (we) won't add head count just because other communities have added head count."
Marturano said Village Administrator Clay Johnson is "actively pursuing" development opportunities.
"The board is confident in his ability to handle this important objective," Marturano said.
He cited the Linden Plaza shopping center on Grand Avenue as "one of the eyesores" that needs an economic boost.
Brandes leads the Lindenhurst United for Change slate, which also features trustee hopefuls Stacey Kramer, Trak Patel and Casandra Slade.
Marturano leads the Lindenhurst Best Choice slate, which also features trustee candidates Dawn Czarny, Patrick John Dunham and Heath Rosten.