Letter: Chris Rintz Sets Record Straight on One Winnetka

Based on the latest campaign rhetoric, my "independent" opponents would have you believe that the Caucus-endorsed candidates are trying to torpedo One Winnetka. Nothing could be further from the truth, and I would like to set the record straight.

One Winnetka presents a great opportunity to provide a badly needed facelift to East Elm and could drive further efforts - both private and public. Controversy often surrounds large projects like this, but the developer has shown a willingness to address concerns, and I believe he will negotiate in good faith once the project reaches Village Council for preliminary approval.

However, this is a complex proposal and includes a request for $7.6 million from taxpayers. We must clearly understand the benefits to make a responsible decision. As a developer of many similar projects, I look forward to assisting my fellow Trustees sort through the various issues to make sure that if any taxpayer dollars are invested, it is in a safe and responsible manner, minimizing the risks that usually accompany such deals.

We want to move forward as quickly as practical, but sizable investments of public money require experience and due diligence. Rushing just to "do something" will put the community's financial reserves at unnecessary risk. The tunnel debacle has taught us that our elected officials must exercise extreme care when making large financial commitments with our tax dollars.

I have 20 years of experience implementing projects like this. When elected, I will bring that to bear on the negotiations with the developer of One Winnetka. I will make sure taxpayers get a fair deal and a great project we can all support.

Chris Rintz
Candidate for Winnetka Village Trustee