Four candidates seeking three, four-year terms on the Village Board in the April 13 election outlined similar goals, including economic development, low taxes and better water quality at a Chamber of Commerce candidates forum attended by about 30 people Wednesday night.
Incumbents emphasized the progress made in the village and said they are committed to continuous improvement.
Trustee Joe Siwinski said the most important goal is controlled growth. “We want to keep the small-town charm that everyone loves,” he said.
Trustee Frank Fleischer, who was out of town on business, sent a statement identifying the three major issues as water quality, economic development and road improvements.
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Environmental Commission member Joe Werner said, “I believe the village is on the right track.”
He said his experience as a member of the commission and his expertise as a plumbing contractor will be beneficial in the quest to improve water quality.
Candidate Dennis Bagdon called for greater effort to attract new businesses and retain others. He said Mokena has lost commercial projects to neighboring towns.
Among other issues facing village officials in the near future are the renovation of the downtown business area on Front Street and along Wolf Road and revisiting the question of a Lake Michigan water supply.