Trustee Candidates Address Downtown Proposal

Buffalo Grove’s trustee candidates gathered Thursday night to share their thoughts on a developer’s proposal to construct a downtown in the village, among other topics.

The gathering was hosted by Save Buffalo Grove, a group of citizens who have concerns about the downtown proposal. Residents filled a room at the Village Bar and Grill to hear the thoughts of current trustees Lester Ottenheimer III, Andrew Stein and Beverly Sussman, whose names will appear on the April 9 election ballot, as well as write-in candidate Jeff Battinus.

All of the candidates said they have questions and concerns about the proposal and that they have not taken a position on it.

“Right now, the downtown is just a concept. It’s an idea. It’s in its infancy. There’s not even a plan for it,” said Sussman, who added that even the developer hasn’t even been able to answer her questions due to the proposal’s early stage.

Ottenheimer said he understands the concerns of Save Buffalo Grove members. “I do not blame the residents for their concern over the proposed development. If it were in my backyard, I certainly wouldn’t be happy,” he said.

Still, he said, no feasibility studies have been completed and details are not yet available. “What we need to do is, we need to take a look at this project. I need to get some specifics,” he said. “I am concerned about maintaining property values, while at the same time I am concerned about not losing a potential opportunity to raise revenue for the village.” 

Stein said that while the developer’s “concept exceeded my expectations,” he wants to ensure that a development does not adversely impact nearby residents.

“Refusing to entertain the idea is just as bad as approving it without comment,” he said. “I assure you that if I’m on the board, if and when this concept moves forward I will have a lot of tough questions for the developer.” 

Battinus said that while it’s too soon for him to take a stance on the downtown proposal, the development’s financing is among his concerns.

“I am a proponent of progress. I really am. Right now there are just too many unanswered questions,” he said. “As more information comes in, I can formulate a decision.”

Play the attached videos to hear each candidate express his or her views on the downtown proposal.

Related: Trustee Candidate Weigh in on Downtown Referendum

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