Naperville to elect first new mayor in 20 years

NAPERVILLE, Ill. (WLS) -- For the first time in decades, Naperville will have a new mayor, and the four candidates come from very different backgrounds.

The western suburb of 150,000 - with its Riverwalk and bustling downtown - will undergo a change in leadership. After 20 years, Mayor George Pradel, the constant in city parades and holidays, is stepping down.

The Rotary Club of Naperville held a forum last month moderated by ABC7's Alan Krashesky. Two candidates currently serve as councilmen and two are new to politics.

The next mayor will likely face financial challenges balancing future city budgets.

Candidate Steve Chirico served one term in city council and owns a flooring company. The Naperville native says it will take a balance of business and public service.

"We need to find a different business model moving forward so we can continue to fund great schools, safe neighborhoods and parks without putting the burden on property taxes," Chirico said.

Candidate Jim Haselhorst has an MBA and a degree in physics. The retired Navy logistics specialist and former USDA supervisor says real world experience is what's needed.

"I have a bit of a worldly view of politics and government that I think would help us in terms of bringing businesses into our community," Haselhorst said.

Candidate Doug Krause has served six terms in city council. He's a realtor and says his 26 years in city government will help the city transition to new leadership.

"We need to have some strong leadership with experience. I've been on the city council for 26 years, I've served on over 40 boards and commissions. We need that kind of experience and leadership because we're going to have a minimum of four new council members," Krause said.

Candidate Marty Walker is a retired firefighter. He retired in 2013 to chair the popular summer festival, Ribfest, in Naperville. He says serving as mayor would be an easy transition.

"I am not a politician. I'm a public servant and my job with Carol Stream Fire Dept. for 40 years was taking care of people," Walker said.

In addition to the mayoral race, Naperville residents will also be voting for all eight city council positions.

Mayor Pradel says he will not back any of the candidates. He says it wouldn't be fair to them or the city he's served for 20 years.