If pupils from Martino Junior High School ran the village, New Lenox would have to balance preserving trees and wildlife with a call for more shopping and entertainment.
Eighth graders sitting in for village officials Friday at the annual Student Government Day kicked off their reign by planting a flowering tree outside the Village Hall, then moved inside to discuss the pros and cons of residential growth.
Some pupils, including Ben Grigus, said growth would change New Lenox “into more of a city atmosphere.”
But student trustee Dan Stanton expressed the majority view.
“I’m against the idea for no more houses,” he said, pointing out that more housing will bring in more business and result in “a less boring community.”
And many pupils want to see recreational businesses, such as a dance club, a roller rink, an ice rink, a movie theater, clothing stores or an upscale restaurant, according to student trustee Sara Katauskas.
But young people’s concerns include safety, as well as good times.
Student trustee Keeley McKinney called for crosswalks and sidewalks at U.S. Highway 30 and Schoolhouse Road near the Lincoln-Way High School Central Campus.
“By 2001, fewer kids at Lincoln-Way will be able to drive,” she said.
And student trustee Sarah Marcinkevich called for more police patrols to deter speeding drivers.
“I learned a lot,” said student mayor Nicole Pretet, who had fun presiding over the meeting but is not expecting to go into politics.
“I’d like to be a doctor,” she said.
Dan, however, is contemplating a political future.
“This could be a job,” he said. “I’m thinking about it.”