Scolaro Endorses 'Three For Three': Letter

Written and submitted by Michael Scolaro

Over the past 12 years, I have had the extraordinary pleasure of serving the citizens of Northbrook in my capacity as Village Trustee. I thank you all for placing your trust in my judgment and electing me three times. I have done the best I can to deliver on the promises I made to the voters and to serve all residents fairly.

I learned a great deal about myself over the past twelve years. I made a lot of friends and lost more than I wanted to. I learned to listen to all sides, to speak better in public, to vote with my conscience and to live with the consequences. I have learned the art of compromise (take note Springfield and Washington), negotiated fairly with labor unions, provided the village with financial flexibility and begun to understand that my opinions are not always a) correct or b) shared by others. I encourage anybody interested in the governance of the Village to step up and make their voice heard.

I have served with nine other Board Members. And while I have periodically disagreed with each of them, I have respected each of their opinions. Each has been entrusted by the residents. It is an awesome responsibility. Most importantly, at the conclusion of a a debate over an issue, we have a vote, and the Village's policies take a turn on the decision of the majority (or in select situations, the super-majority). Every board member's vote whether they have served 20 weeks or 20 years, counts the same. Because of this enormous issue, it is imperative the voters cast all three of their ballots for Trustee to get the Board that best represents them. Using only one of your ballots may help get a single candidate elected, but unless you agree with that candidate on EVERY issue, it is a prescription for disappointment.

With all of this said, I support the Caucus endorsed candidates for the Village Board. Kathryn Ciesla is a dedicated public servant who effectively articulates a well thought out position on every issue (and should be named the next Chair of the Administrative and Finance Committee), Muriel Collison has the perspective of a lifelong Northbrook resident with significant Plan Commission experience and Jason Han will bring some much needed youth to the Board.

Please join me in casting your vote for these three candidates. Remember THREEFORTHREE in 2017.

Sincerely,

Michael W. Scolaro
Northbrook Village Trustee 2005-2017