PECATONICA, Ill. (WIFR) – Over the past four years, Pecatonica experienced significant turmoil as they had a village president step down during an embezzlement probe, along with a police chief and another officer being dismissed due to distinct criminal allegations and convictions. The main task now facing the city’s fresh leadership is rebuilding public trust in local governance.
Collin Hardy has been elected as the new village president of Pecatonica. According to initial vote counts, Hardy outpaced his competitor and fellow Pecatonica village trustee, Gerald Howard, by securing an additional 157 votes.
Bob Squires, a local entrepreneur from Pecatonica who was born in the town, mentions that the city experienced challenging periods some years back. However, he envisions a hopeful future for the community thanks to fresh leadership.
"He is enthusiastic about it; he’s really looking forward to doing it, rather than simply going through the motions," stated Squires.
The Winnebago County village is set to welcomes three new local officials with Collin Hardy stepping up as the village president; he is presently serving on the board of trustees. Squires believes that Hardy’s newcomer status makes him someone capable of earning the confidence of community members.
I encounter him everywhere," said Squires. "In my view, you cannot effectively run a small town without understanding the people who live there, and I believe we have neglected this.
Squires emphasizes that it's crucial for village officials to understand their community rather than merely managing it. Additionally, he thinks Hardy recognizes the possibilities for development in the downtown district.
"He remains calm and rational. This is what I appreciate. I value someone who can make well-thought-out decisions peacefully, logically, considering everyone's viewpoints before concluding," stated Squires.
The initial shift involves reviving support for local enterprises," stated Hardy. "During COVID-19, focusing on local businesses was crucial, yet many of us seem to have moved away from this approach. Therefore, let’s refocus our efforts on revitalizing downtown areas, figuring out ways to assist these business proprietors, as well as encouraging additional small ventures to join our communities.
Hardy has resided in Pecatonica for just four years, yet he chose to run for village president primarily because of his three kids. His aim is to ensure that Pecatonica remains an ideal location for young families to thrive.
"I genuinely love residing here, so I wish to engage with others; after all, they're my neighbors, and I intend to keep living here," stated Hardy.
In the village of Pecatonica, a new Township Supervisor, Gregory Deppe, has been elected as well. Deppe won against his competitor by securing 509 more votes.
The official election outcomes, which include data from Pecatonica, are anticipated by April 15.