May/June Minute with the Mayor

(Originally published in the May/June Hanover Park HiLighter)

My inaugural message to the residents of Hanover Park begins with congratulations to our newest Trustee Toni Carter and to returning Trustee’s Lori Kaiser, and Joe Nicolosi. The recent election process was challenging for everyone committed to the well being of our hometown. Thanks to those who took the time to vote. Finally, as your new Village President, I look forward to serving the needs of our hometown and working with the elected Board.

During my walking door to door these past few months, I learned how our hometown has changed and evolved in a short period of time. I discovered that the Township Social Services are being worked as never before. The growth of subsidized housing and the influx of new residents are affecting change within our schools and our neighborhoods. I’ve heard from our residents, and along with the other taxing bodies’ elected officials, I plan to seek solutions to
meet our changing society. I also discovered that the residents of Hanover Park appreciate and value the rich diversity of our hometown. Now, we need to participate together as we learn much about our differences. The activities within our schools are a successful model of cooperation toward shared goals. This is a positive example for all of us to follow. Many challenges lie ahead of us. Many residents and business leaders have shared their belief that
together, with everyone’s involvement, we can make a difference.

2008 is the 50th anniversary of Hanover Park. We are looking forward to organizing events that will celebrate and include all organizations and residents. Expect to hear more about our hometown’s Birthday Party activities in future columns.

In early May, the Hanover Park Baseball Association began their season with a nice event. Unfortunately, family business had us in Arkansas at the time, so I was unable to attend. Our teams are the pride of Hanover Park, and the spirit of good sportsmanship and excellence builds character in our youth. Good luck to all our families and young people engaging in team sports and other healthy activities this summer. Enjoy every moment.

Finally, I’m most proud of the volunteers who are active in Village sponsored programs. A large contingent of our Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT) has taken on the additional training and skill building to support the Fire Department with Rehab at a fire scene. On May 20th, we all converged on the University of Illinois Fire ground training facility. We experienced many new skills and learned how firefighters survive and control a fire in a building. The outcome provided the volunteers an understanding of what a firefighter needs when seeking recovery.

I look forward to serving everyone and making myself available via open communication. Hanover Park is our hometown. Take an opportunity to get involved.

Sincerely,
Rod