Endorsement: Steve Carlson in GOP primary for Lake County Board's District 7

Elected officials often tout the importance of bipartisan efforts. Lake County Board Member Steve Carlson, however, goes beyond the rhetoric. A Republican, Carlson works with Democrats on important projects and demonstrates respect for differing viewpoints. He's a thoughtful board member, who has long fought for issues regarding the health of both Lake County's residents and its natural resources. For those reasons - and more - we believe he deserves his constituents' support in the March 17 GOP primary.

Carlson faces a primary election challenge for his District 7 seat from Greg Garner, a four-term veteran of the Gurnee village board. We have endorsed Garner for that position in the past, citing his experience and his willingness to challenge ideas. He raises important questions about how the county board was unaware of issues regarding former Chairman Aaron Lawlor's misuse of his county credit card - a period that led to ethics reform.

But Garner does not have the same grasp of county issues as Carlson, who continues to display an enthusiasm for a post he has held since 2002.

District 7 includes portions of Gurnee, Third Lake and the surrounding unincorporated areas. And the winner of the district's primary will move on to the November general election to face Democrat Carissa Casbon of Warren Township. We believe Carlson is better equipped than Garner to do so.

Carlson is rightly proud of his efforts to launch 211 Lake County, a 24-hour information and referral hotline designed to assist callers with issues ranging from housing to mental health. He also has been involved with finding solutions for the county-owned Winchester House skilled nursing facility. Likewise, he is a strong advocate for the forest preserves.

He earns our endorsement.