Candidates in Machesney Park’s Presidential race agree on the need for economic growth

MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — Both Machesney Park Presidential candidates Steve Johnson and Julie Boggie feel that growing the village’s economy is a top priority as their campaigns wind down ahead of the consolidated election.

Incumbent Machesney Park Village President Johnson and Village Trustee Boggie explained that more activities and attractions in the village are on voters’ minds.

“That’s the key. People want sit-down restaurants, and I 100% hear it,” said Johnson. “We’re doing what we can to get them.”

“They’re interested in family entertainment, family restaurants, attractions and activities,” Boggie said. “That’s one place that I would really like to see Machesney Park shine even brighter in the future.”

Johnson is in his second term as President and feels he has made major contributions to the village over the past 8 years.

“Now we have 500 acres in front of the state park ready for development, and people are very excited about it,” said Johnson. “Developers are actually calling us and inquiring on this, very important.”

Boggie thinks her involvement with the community makes her stand out as a candidate.

“As a village trustee, I’m always looking to establish connections to encourage people to look at the village, to look in the Machesney Park at our area for housing, at our schools, at our community,” said Boggie.

Both candidates said they want the best for the community and plan to do that by making residents the top priority.

“They have a concern; it’s my concern, whatever they need. You know, I’m here for them,” said Johnson.

“I want to sharpen our focus on our residents. I want to find out how we can be serving and in what ways we can be growing that really will enhance their lives,” said Boggie.