On April 1, several elections will take place across Vermilion County, including those for alderperson, mayor of Hoopeston, Georgetown, and Westville, school boards, DACC college board, and village trustees.
As part of this year’s local election coverage, the Commercial-News is running a series of question and answer stories, giving each candidate a chance to share their vision for their community so voters can make a more informed decision when they head to the polls.
Today, we learn more about two of the three candidates running for Mayor of the Village of Westville — Troy Strebin, Darin Troglia and Nick Pierce.
Candidates were limited to three sentences each in their answers.
What is the top issue facing the Village of Westville?
Troy Strebin: “Our village has an aging infrastructure and it needs immediate attention. We currently have a police station that is in poor condition, multiple buildings that should be condemned, and water lines dating back to 1928, just to name a few of the problems. All of these things can lead to public safety issues, depreciation of property values, and could be costly to our village.”
Darin Troglia: “I feel that the residents of Westville have no idea the amount crime activity we currently have in our town. I did a ride along with our police officers the other night for 12 hours which reminded me why the safety and security of our residents and police officers has and will be my number one priority. Before we can resolve other issues and bring in new business we must combat crime and support our police and provide every resource they need to succeed.”
Nick Pierce: “My first priority if I become Mayor will be to bring businesses to Westville. I’ve talked to business owners and investors and think we can get some pretty nice establishments and stores to town.”
How do you plan to engage with your constituents?
Strebin: “I will propose having two village meetings per month so that more residents can attend, be informed, and get involved. I would like to have the meeting agendas posted to our village website and Facebook page in an effort to reach more residents. As always, I am available by text, phone, email or in person to provide assistance when needed.”
Troglia: “I want to have an open door policy at city hall and I want every resident to know I will be accessible to meet them even after normal business hours. I will be active and visible in the community and I want everyone to feel comfortable reaching out to me to share their comments and concerns. Since it is not always easy for residents to attend monthly meetings, I want to be as transparent as possible sharing even more information on the village website and social media, and live stream meetings so more can hear and see what business is being discussed.”
Pierce: “Just getting out and about the village talking to citizens and listening to their concerns.”
Why should you be elected?
Strebin: “Serving as a Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy has taught me the importance of preparation and how to be an effective leader. I have already selected the appointees to fill the soon-to-be vacant positions, which will ensure a smooth transition and prevent delays in operations. I am a great choice for mayor because I have fresh ideas, leadership experience, a game plan, and I am ready to bring positive changes to Westville.”
Troglia: “I feel that as a businessman I can use those skills to lead the village into the future and I have the experience needed to be a successful leader. I will be very involved in every aspect of the village and will work very closely with all the trustees by keeping an open line of communication moving forward. I am confident that if given the opportunity, I will make a difference and will work very hard for all of the residents of the Village of Westville as their new mayor.”
Pierce: “Like my two fellow running mates, I’ve never been on the board. I’d be a new face with new ideas, if you want change I’m your man. We can’t do another four (sic) with nothing being done.”