I couldn't beleive my ears this morning. Is this man so ignorant that he was campaigning for the county board during the state of the city speech? I would like to have him explain his latest embarrassing statements in the Tribune. How is paying property tax on rental propery that he owns, "... paying more than my fair share". You do not get a homeowner's exemption unless you are living in the home as your primary residence, one per customer, period.

Why doesn't he also explain why he is also the only mayor in Elmhurst history to sign up for a mayoral pension? This man is a walking ethics violation. He shouldn't be considered for the county board and he shouldn't be voted in for a second term as mayor.

Karen, I think there is a misquote in this article. The mayor is said to be running for County Board so he can be on the stormwater commitee. He currently IS on the stormwater commitee and has been since our former mayor retired from it. You can verify it by checking the county website and then looking at the members of the stormwater commitee.
We also have excellent representation on that commitee from Paul Fichtner from district 1. Both Mr. Fichtner and our former mayor have been by far the best members of that commitee. If you live and district 1 be sure to vote for Paul Fichtner!
It is doubtful Elmhurst would see county money to fix our stormwater issues unless they are caused by the overflow of the streams since from my understanding the county limits thier help to these issues and that is what the county invested 100 million in the Elmhurst Quarry to do.

The citizens of Elmhurst deserve to have a clear understanding of what the County's role is regarding stormwater issues. From the County's website under stormwater FAQ's "The County's Stormwater Management Department (SWM) is responsible for mitigating the effects of over bank flooding which occurs when streams or rivers top their banks."
"Misconception: SWM is responsible for any flooding that happens anywhere within the County
SWM is responsible for regional over bank flooding not localized drainage and flooding issue.
Incorporated municipalities maintain their own storm sewer systems and are responsible for any overland flooding that may occur as a result of local drainage complications."
Mayor DiCianni must know this since he sits on the stormwater committee. If he is painting a picture that elect him to County Board and he will bring home millions to fix our problems caused not by the creek but a 7 inch rain then something just doesn't add up.
We need to elect representatives to the County Board that understand the County's role and are willing to shoot straight with us. I hope people will take the time to look at the entire field of folks running for County Board.
Currently we have 6 board member representing Elmhurst at 50,000 dollars per member or 300,000 dollars of representation. Additionally the Mayor sits on the stormwater committee and the the Chairman of the board lives in Elmhurst. Someone ought to be able to give the teary-eyed residents a clear picture.

Health care benefits

any ideas what grocer is coming to town?

Dupage County recently assisted Elk Grove Village fund a study of the Busse Woods Dam on Salt Creek. Elk Grove wants to rebuild the dam so it can be lowered before storms. I believe Dupage sent Elk Grove $25,000. The City of Elmhurst, our mayor also sent Elk Grove money, $2,000. This is news I think our mayor should have shared with his residents. He didn’t mention this study in all the months we had our own study going on in Elmhurst. The engineer we hired must have known about it because it appears his name is attached to the Elk Grove study. I realize our problem in 2010 was with the sewers, but any talk of the creek affecting Elmhurst should be brought forward to the residents and task force. Whether he is a mayor or county board member, it doesn’t make him a storm water expert and he shouldn’t be making decisions about our creek.

Jan Tarnew--bet you're right...a county board seat gets you health benefits and a pension...neither of which you get owning a printing company. Imagine all of the new printing jobs he'd get too as a county board member...even more than he's getting now by being Mayor of Elmhurst!

What imbeciles! Mayor DiCianni is a self-made man through no help of the city or county. It is all on account of Pete busting his butt, his hard work ethic, and brains. I assure you he is not doing all he does for Elmhurst for some piddley-a*# pension. Don't be jealous that Pete worked his way up to take advanage of completely legal benefits that are available to all, real estate breaks and small pensions that are available to Elmhurst mayors. Go, Pete!

If we get a Meijer I will be utterly pissed off.

Regardless I miss the days of Builders Square, the Kmart that sits in its place is a joke, nobody I know goes there (most people would rather goto Target). They never have deals and most things they carry are either outdated/overpriced/poor quality.

Oh how I dream of Lowes going up in its location..

Vincent, I was wondering if I was one of the targets of your name calling. All I was doing is pointing out what the role of DuPage County's stormwater department is. I wasn't at the event but if the Mayor is painting a picture that the County will provide us with tens of millions of dollars to fix flooding issues not related to streams overflowing then I guess he doesn't understand the role of the County even though he sits on that very commitee. If my own brother were running for office and misinforming voters I would make the same correction. I believe we need to hold elected individuals accountable for what they say. If you haven't noticed Illinois is in pretty bad shape and I believe it is in part because we have lowered the bar on what to expect from our elected officials. To many of them go around telling us what we want to hear instead of working to fix the real problems we have.

Folks, I'm almost positive he's referring to Mariano's - this has been going around town for a couple of months now. They are looking at one of the old car dealers in north Elmhurst. If we can get them, it will be a huge coup for Elmhurst - they are one of the best grocers I've seen - and it will force the others in town to step up their game.

Tina,

It also may further divide the pie of stores that are being squeezed for profits from everywhere. Dollar stores, Menards, Walgreens, CVS, gas stations, Target, WalMart,

I really have advocated for a Home Center as this will keep tax dollars in Elmhurst. I miss the Builders Square and I agree that Target would have fit our image and demographic better than Kmart. Kmart is okay but this location might even be a better choice for a home center.

I wish a Sweet Tomatoes could be located in front of Kmart. I did call corporate but at that time they had already picked Lombard. Rising gas prices might change consumers desire to travel. Anything to keep our tax dollars in our backyard is a good idea.and important is these times.

Jim, my predictions if we get a Mariano's is that it will be wildly popular. They've got a fantastic prepared foods area, featuring freshly made sushi, wood fired pizzas, a salad bar, and more - which is great for the office people in North Elmhurst. I'm currently up that way and there's not a lot of healthy options besides Zenwich.

They've also got a great deli, unbelievable bakery, great selection of wines and craft beers, and a produce dept that is unmatched. Their regular groceries, though, are all reasonably priced. It's owned by Roundy's, a Wisconsin tradition; but the former CEO of Dominicks is the master behind the concept. I can't wait. I think you'll see shoppers from other burbs heading to it, which will be great for our tax base.

It doesn't really have any items that would compete with Menards, or other home stores. But it will give Jewel and Dominicks a run for their money, imo.

Tina,

Your reasoning is always sound. You sure know how to make it something to look forward to.

Mariano's is incredible and will kick Jewel and Dominick's butt once it is here. If they locate on the north side, the Bensenville Dominick's will close soon. The CEO has a vendetta against Dominick's but he is doing it the right way--kicking their butt on the retail battlefield through service and creativity. This is something both Jewel and Dominick's lost when the moved out of state. Also, Elmhurst better watch out on the south side as well. Pete's Fresh Markets is opening on Summit and Roosevelt. Many Jewel shoppers will now to Pete's because they are head and shoulders above Jewel.

Vincent,

Your perspectives are always interesting and informative.

the store is indeed mariano's and only time will tell if it will be successful or not - not everyone has the ability to spend double on things that are comparable at a jewel or dominick's, especially in bensenville, villa park, melrose park, etc., not to mention, those that are not millionaires in elmhurst. as for the "big box retailer" coming in across from walmart - in his dreams. meijer just opened on north avenue in melrose park, target is in villa park and lombard, we already have k-mart...soooo that leaves??? home depot just announced downsizes and closings at the beginning of the year, though not in the chicago area - yet. i'm sure that the "sweetness" of the mariano's deal will far outstrip any tax benefits, as food isn't subjected to the same taxes as other goods are. i'm sorry to inform you all, but i'm sure that the $50k salary, the guaranteed pension, and healthcare benefits are a big plus when you consider that being self employed does not provide a public-funded pension (translation - you pay for it, not him), low to no cost healthcare, and not only a guaranteed $50k/year but i'm sure he will go after anyone and everyone to do their printing w/him.

I've shopped at the Mariano's in Arlington Hts, and I can assure you their prices are very competitive, if not better, than Jewel or Dominicks. In fact, I'd hardly call Jewel or Dominicks reasonably priced. I'm lucky if I can get two bags of groceries there for $75, which would buy me a cart full of produce in much better shape at Caputo's. The produce at both our grocers in town is average at best and highly priced. Mariano's will give people a much better option and better pricing, along with more selection of both conventional and organic foods.

I am getting hungry....

what will be telling is if residents of the the surrounding communities like bensenville, villa park, melrose park, addison will drive to elmhurst to do their weekly shopping or if basically this will be an establishment that will serve to be that "once in a while for something special" place, which will then really make it much more difficult to succeed past whatever incentives would have been given in order to bring the establishment here in the first place. the grocery business operates on very thin margins, usually of less than 2 to a max of around 4%, and that's during good economic times. there are still a lot of people in elmhurst and within a 10 mile radius of elmhurst that are unemployed, underemployed, and decidedly working class, all demographics that are highly unlikely to shop at such an establishment as mariano's, instead, they're going to aldi, which, incidentally, is owned by the same parent company as trader joe's.

Darlene,

You disappeared from these pages for a long time. Any particular reason ?

So, Darlene, do you have any recommendations? All I've heard you say are negative things about any ideas except an Aldi which is much smaller in size than this site. I think a Mariano's or something similar is appealing to those that currently drive to Whole Foods or Trader Joes and would bring back those dollars that are currently going to other cities.

i agree that it is appealing to those that drive to trader joes or to whole foods - but how many people out of the entire grocery shopping population of elmhurst, bensenville, villa park, addison and melrose park drive to trader joes or whole foods and in terms of dollars, how many dollars are we actually losing to those establishments in comparison to the current choices available locally? wal mart in villa park is in the process of remodelling their store to include a fresh bakery, deli, and prepared foods area. these aren't "negative things" - but reality - what is actually happening right now. actually, a better idea, considering the ethnic population of the surrouding communities, i would advocate for a hispanic grocer, complete w/fresh carnitas, tortillas, and bakery - now that would be a huge success, considering that the best ones right now are in the city of chicago, mostly on the south side, and residents of bensenville, addison, melrose park do indeed drive all the way into the city to shop for these goods. it's time to look at the changing demographics (again, this is reality, not negativity).

If I were honest, I would say that I moved to Elmhurst because it is a fairly educated community, aspiring to improve itself, centrally located, and white. All cultures tend to live in areas where they are surrounded by their cultural and social peers. That is a reality that a white person will condemned for saying. It still is the truth. I consider myself an open minded person but I am no different than most people.

Based on this, I would not prefer a Hispanic store located in Elmhurst. There is one in Northlake and I believe one in Bensenville as well as Addison. Elmhurst is an Island. We have no junkyards or rough and tumble businesses. Yet we have access to them. The best of both worlds.

Our parks are overrun from those outside the community. We may not be Winnetka or Hinsdale but there is nothing wrong in aspiring to be so. I would love to see upscale stores thrive in town. I like when I see new homes being built. I am thankful when neighbors remodel their homes. In these difficult financial times I hope Elmhurst continues to attract educated individuals to our community. Each community appeals to a different demographic. There is nothing wrong with that. Some might call this an elitist attitude. I am not that politically correct. I can live with that. I am not talking about phony snobbery. I detest Hollywood values. I like our small town feel.

Darlene: Mariano's is not Whole Foods or Trader Joes. They will compete with every item on the shelves at Jewel and Dominicks. Take a drive up to Arlington Heights and see for yourself. Be prepared to do some shopping because you will be very amazed by the prices that you see. If you don't want to drive up there, then take a look at their website.

Darlene, not to be argumentative, but I can name 20 residents off the top of my head (including myself) who regularly drive to Hinsdale, Westmont, Willowbrook, Oak Park, and Wheaton to spend our dollars at Whole Foods and Trader joes. In fact, most of our money is spent at these stores, with trips to local grocers being for a small percentage of items. I can't imagine that we are that unique in terms of our demographics. Think of all that money that we would keep locally.

Also, Mariano's has been called a great place to work by many, and it provides a lot of opportunity for upward mobility and advancement throughout the organization, Having them come to Elmhurst would also mean over 200 jobs and the opportunity for future advancement. For those who are unemployed or just beginning their careers, that's huge.

In my profession, I encounter a lot of health conscious residents, and one common thread is that our community is being underserved by the grocery options available. While the economy is down, there is still a huge and growing emphasis on cooking healthy foods at home, rather than eating out all the time.

With the slow food and local food movement gaining speed, people at all levels are interested in obtaining healthy and safely raised meats, fish, and produce. And many are willing to spend a bit more to ensure the health of their families. It's a shame we have to shop outside the community for this, with the exception of our farmers mkt.

It is good to see signs of economic growth returning to the area again. After this recent recession, I would think residents would take any good news as a good thing. But in this new toxic climate of always looking negatively, or pointing fingers at people with different ideas, we will perpetuate this gloomy economic period and never move toward economic growth again. Or ever be proud to live in a country that just a short time ago was considered to be a good thing and the ultimate goal of millions of people from all over the world.
I have no idea how the conversation can degenerate to who is Republican or the KKK. Is this what we have degenerated to these days? Will we, the residents of just this local area ever be able to work together to make this a great place to live again?
I'm not sure but still hope that it happens.

I am new to this comment board. I grew tired of the one I had belonged to earlier. It was mostly used by users who had the same thing to say over and over and they tried to play the Democrat against the Republican game. Personally, I feel it is this constant bickering that got us in this economic mess. We can not move forward when tied up in knots, I hope that a day will come soon when Americans and here locally we can at least work together to achieve goals that are beneficial for the majority because with this constant bickering- we all lose. I do not see any positives happening with either political party right now, so maybe its time to start with a blank slate.

So, to the person trying to draw me into a political who's best,
been there and done that. I only wanted to say its refreshing to see something new happening here.

Duke of York,

Every ethnic group that I know tends to congregate together. That is human nature. That is not racist. Every person has preferences and prejudices. You obviously are in favor of democrats and are prejudiced against republicans. That is your right. You shop selectively and drive certain types of cars. You do not just date anyone.

I am so prejudiced that I have a long term and serious relationship with a wonderful Hispanic woman and am deeply involved with their family. If I have any preference it is for solid middle class values and lifestyle. I admire education.

I like what Sammy said and always enjoy Tina's comments.

This sounds even better then a Trader Jose'. It's good to hear that a successful entrepreneur is willing to make the investment in a new grocery store in town.
Is there any information about the city striking a deal to entice them to locate here? If they did I would think that would be public information voted on by the Alderman etc.

As a person who believes in constant improvement, anything that elevates our community is something I applaud.

I am sure that this retailer did research to warrant opening a store in our community.

Tina is correct in stating that this will keep tax dollars in Elmhurst. It also makes a very positive statement about Elmhurst. Elmhurst does not wish to be filled with dollar stores, quick loans, pawn shops, and anything that is often affiliated with a different demographic. I am not saying that these types of businesses do not have a place in our society and fill a need. Elmhurst has established itself in a niche and rightfully continues to to support those elements that are consistent within that market. Aldi's is a great store and we have two of them nearby. One is in Addison and one in Northlake. This company chose these locations for a reason.

Wow this is incredible, Darlene and Jim, you guys belong in the same room. Jim is like a flag,whichever the wind blows he goes. Darlene you just hate loosing an election and cannot come to grip that it is time to work together to make Elmhurst more productive.
I just cannot believe that these discussions are hapenning in 2012. Someone should put this website on the comedy channel.

Jim I know you missed Darlene, however I was also gone for a few weeks.
Due to special business for our country, I was overseas doing stufffff.

It's about time we had a good grocery store to shop at in Elmhurst. Competition is always good and maybe Dominick s and Jewel will get their act together to offer a better product. This is a win win for elmhurst and I am so glad that we have a mayor who cares about enhancing our upscale community.

Duke,

You are right, I do not like narrow minded people who self righteously believe that their perspective is the only valid one.

It is not about color. it is about social class. Not everyone is created equal.

Deal in the real world, not at High School, and you will realize that.

Yes, some of my best friend ARE Hispanics. I love one of them and enjoy her family.

I managed large apartment complexes and related very well to many cultures.

James, Because I do not have a consistent liberal or conservative view has nothing to do with "any way the wind blows. It is about discernment and flexibility in my thought process. You have a difficulty with ambiguity. A simple way of thinking that works for you. I am glad you were overseas. Why didn't you stay ? What wonderful thing were you doing for our country.? Pull this website? So much for democracy or freedom of speech. We already have a comedy channel. Your thoughts are a joke. How is that for certainty ! Please educate me. Where are my thoughts all over the place ? Be specific, please.

Duke, the color of someones skin does not matter to me but the content of their character does. Floyd, you are an insightful person.

Darlene and I disagree about much. I respect her right to think differently

Jim, Try not to let these comments get to you, it is the way of the computer world to criticize via comment boards. If only those who utilize their time criticizing others would get off their *** and do something constructive during that time, it might be a different and more positive place.

People with good hearts and good intent can see through negativity and meaningless commentary. Rise above the fray and pass them by.
I just joined this message board even though a long time local resident. It is diappointing that even on a local board, a segment of users are the same as on the national AOL board, the segment that has little to add to society.
Their words will remain as a reminder to their children and grandchildren what they were all about. Something to think about that. All of these comments will be read by people long after we are all gone.

Darlene, I am sorry, but everything that you have written on the patch has always, I repeat always been very negative. It sounds like a personal vendetta aginst people that are trying to make Elmhurst a better town to live in. Always attacking others with demeaning words. What have you done in Elmhurst that is good? NOTHING! Look at the comments made, "decisions made in a fair and ethical manner", bullcrap. "Positions that do not require the high level of education"? Ho yeah you people are very well educated.
I am sorry that these comments can be viewed by outsiders, they must think Elmhurst is a town full of egotist people. I think I rather hang with people that have a low level of education but have some wisdom, these people work for a living rather then acting peevishly. Jim and Darlene both of your suffer from a variety of ideliasm called metaphysical solipsism, or maybe is it methodological solipsism, or maybe it's both? Jim I stick to what I said, you cannot be educated because you have a vacuous mind and sound like a bigot using Duke's words. I can see Karen Chandra sitting back with a martini laughing at all of these ridiculous postings. Sounds like a bunch of *%^#@#$%^. Here is to you Chandra.

James,

If anyone should be accused of negative it would be you. Are you the behind the scenes attach dog for those with a vested interest in maintaining power. You are self righteous beyond belief. I never attack anyone, although I may openly disagree.

I have never been accused of being a bigot although I admit a strong preference for upper and middle class values. I do not value pretension nor do I think that jerry Springer values are something I support.

You speak of Darlene's negatives yet it is you who is always negative.

People who offer ideas to improve the community should be seen in a positive light.

You must have a very unsatisfactory life. So much hatred. Quit throwing your hissy fits. They get old.

for once, i agree with mr. court. it's you that is negative, mr. heartfeld, not me. i have done a lot in this community, albeit, very quietly. i was the "right arm" to mr. diamond on the referenda for district 205, a youth commissioner for 5 1/2 years, a volunteer mentor in our school district for the last 7 1/2, the recording secretary for the hospital guild council for 5 years, and assisted w/adult religious education for 3 years, just to name a few of the things i have done to make this town a better place to live and raise a family, despite the fact that i myself have no children and have never been married. i am not an eliteist in any way, despite having multiple college degrees, i have a long-term ex who was hispanic, and i make certain that i understand what is going on in the world around me - i don't live in a bubble. i read the newspaper daily from cover to cover, crain's chicago business, and anything else that comes across my screen. i try to speak from knowledge, rather than speculation like so many others, as i prefer facts, numbers, like this one: roundy's is about to go public. how 'bout that...this is a very interesting development in light of the possibility of a mariano's coming to elmhurst.

ps - i don't like hypocrites and there are many of them that are in positions of influence here in elmhurst, especially that are in charge of spending hard-earned tax-payer money. they are ethically challenged at times, including such things as taking a transfer tax refund when clearly not entitled, treating women like they are inferior, and calling out residents for exercizing their right to free speech.

Mr. Heartferd, when you were over seas were you "loosing" your dictionary? I was curious so I did a little research. There are no Heartferd households in Elmhurst, or Dupage County for that matter. Is it possible perhaps that you are close associate of Pension Pete or could you be Pension Pete himself?

That is a question that Karen from the Patch should know and I believe she does not favor those who hide behind anonymous postings. Karen......is Mr "Heartferd" a real name.
In a spirit of transparency I would expect an honest answer. Thanks

To everyone who has posted honest suggestions, constructive criticisms, and your thoughts on how to make this town and region a better place, my hat is off to you.
I have a confession of my own to make, my shown name is an alias. I just registered
to the comment board a week ago and am always careful about my privacy. But this I guarantee is the truth, I lived over twenty years in the town of Elmhurst and another
twenty in a bordering village. I have seen some changes in the area that give me some concern and others that remind me that life is an ever changing place. I have fond memories of this town, a place where everyone knew each other and where we never locked our doors. It had a small town feel only twenty years ago. Its hard to see your boyhood home become a totally different place, where personal safety is a major concern and where next door neighbors don't even know each other. If this is progress, than count me as one who does look toward the past for ideas on how to improve the future. There is nothing wrong with maintaining a society that has set high standards for itself. (end of part 1)

At the same time, even though political correctness has become a crutch for some, it still is important to have respect for people who do not look the same, talk the same or have the same outlooks as yourself. Words that have been used as weapons to hurt someone in the distant past should be only used with caution. My statement is directed at not one person in particular, I have enjoyed most of this dialogue. I do want to add that I think someone whom I will not name is having a good time being a funny guy- at least he probably thinks he is. I like to laugh and have a good time myself when the situation calls for, and I admit I may have cracked a smile at a couple posts but Mr Herdfart, some of it was over the top.
Its not that funny to make fun of those trying to do some good. (the end)

The city seems to have deleted the video of the 'State of Our City Address'.

I have no way to verify this, but rumor has it that Pension Pete's unethical and illegal campaigning for a seat on the County Board during the address caught the eye of the State's Attorney's office and it was strongly suggested that it be taken down.

it's been taken off of the city's website for that exact reason, but my understanding it was at the suggestion of several aldermen.