Why Rita Bucur for President Again?

 1. The hiring of a new Village Administrator with the skill set needed for such a position. 

2. The new Village attorney has made changes in how the Village can govern in a way to reduce potential liabilities resulting from poor policies or ideas. 

3. Rita was instrumental in hiring our new fire department chief, Al Carr, who has made sweeping changes in the Fire Commission. These changes have brought forth qualified leadership and promotions that were overdue. The changes have substantially increased the effectiveness of the fire department and emergency medical services. 

4. Rita has been instrumental in supporting local businesses and putting an end to selective lawfare against taxpayers.

5. Rita Bucur and Pete Poli meticulously put in place a policy for our property maintenance officer to prevent selective enforcement and citizen lawfare that was launched through unjustified complaints. This also could not have been done without the support of Trustees Barhyte, Young, Faber, Hopkins, and Gandt. However, it is important to note, that Rita and Pete convinced the entire board that this is what the majority of citizens want.

6. Rita Bucur and Jeff Albrecht have been instrumental in the creation of the Economic Development Committee. Both Rita and Jeff saw a need to explore how the Village had failed in the past in supporting businesses, residents, and future developers. The Village had an approach that made “NO” the most likely answer. The only way “YES” was achieved was by jumping through absurd and unnecessary hurdles.  Under this new committee, the goal will be to operate with a “can-do” attitude. Naturally, the committee will not be able to always say “YES,” but that is always the goal. 

The Economic Development Committee will initially face many challenges. The main challenge will be changing staff mindsets that have in the past produced “NO” answers to “YES” answers. With the support of the staff, many new ideas can be brought forth for little to no cost. The Village needs the support of the residents to help guide the future of our Village without adding layers of unnecessary bureaucracy and staff. With the support of the community and staff, this will be possible. 

The Village has financial difficulties ahead, but the committee's goal is to assist in that difficult journey. Thanks to all the members who have dedicated their time and expertise to the Economic Development Committee, an immense value will be brought to the Village at almost no cost.

The document the staff put out at the last meeting, on Feb 24, 2025, is misleading and is without merit. The document claimed that the committee would cost taxpayers $60,000. That number makes no sense!  How is it that a non-binding, only recommending committee, will cost 10 to 15 times more than the planning commission that has three additional members? This is a ridiculous notion and it will be discussed in depth at a future meeting. The public should rest assured that the cost of the committee will not be a great expense to the Village. It is perplexing, and it calls into question, the intentions of the administration and certain board members who voted for this commission. Nevertheless, the Economic Development Committee will work beyond this misinformation and earn the support of the community. Please support the committee on the March 15 open meeting at the Village Hall to help plan the future of the Village.

Lastly, committee members, such as Pete Poli, will make our community feel safe that the proper village procedures are being followed. Sharon Pomaville, the Executive Director of The Sharing Center, will offer valuable perspectives that many of the committee members do not have. Additionally, Ross Swartz and Brian Filiatreault both offer an understanding of the community's desires due to their living and building businesses in Salem Lakes for decades. Their expertise will bring much-needed knowledge on how to support development that will be embraced by the community. In short, the Economic Development Committee will offer a vast array of expertise that the Village is lacking. 

7. Rita has done a phenomenal job so far. Residents should be proud of their choice. She serves the people daily and is without a doubt dedicated to the betterment of this Village.