Meet the Candidates: Northfield village president, 2 for 1 seat

JUMP TO: Charles Orth | Tracey Mendrek (c)
(c: caucus endorsed)

Two candidates, both current village trustees, are vying for the position of Northfield village president.

Tracey Mendrek’s first term as trustee is expiring, and Charles Orth is in the middle of his second term on the village board. Voters will select who will replace Greg Lungmuss, a one-term village president.

Below are basic profiles of the two individuals, each of whom submitted a digital form upon request from The Record. The order in which they are presented was selected at random.

These profiles are just one layer of The Record’s election coverage and are meant to provide community members with basic information about those running for public office. Prior to the election on April 1, The Record will also conduct and publish independent interviews with the candidates.

Name: Charles Orth

Professional experience: Recently retired after 45 years in the fire service

Community experience/involvement: Current Village Board trustee since 2019; Cub Master Pack 17; president and vice president of School Board at St. Philip the Apostle School (former); Northfield Village Caucus; Northfield Fire and EMS Department 1979-1989; Member of the Northfield Traffic and Transportation Committee; T-ball coach; Usher at St. Philip the Apostle Church; community activist

Why are you running for this public office?

In my leadership roles in the community I have demonstrated my ability to be a knowledgeable, capable leader. I know I can make a difference in my role as president. As a lifelong resident (65 years), I have seen and lived the challenges Northfield has faced. I will continue to execute fiscal responsibility and in doing so will allow our business community to continue to thrive. I will bring back transparency and provide the residents open channels of communication. Supporting local Businesses. Prioritizing public safety. Strategic and impactful capital improvements. I will continue to operate with integrity and transparency.

(Campaign website: www.voteorth.com)

Name: Tracey Mendrek

Professional experience: CFO of a highly regarded crisis communications and issues management firm

Community experience/involvement: Current Village trustee, over 30 years of community involvement bringing business experience in finance, planning and strategy to Northfield, including Zoning Board of Appeals liaison, 12 years on Plan and Zoning Commission, Home Rule Referendum co-chair, steering committee against widening Willow Road, District 29 PTO and Northfield Community Nursery School Board.

Why are you running for this public office?

I’m running for village president because Northfield is a special community and my home for 35 years. From my days on the PTO and the Northfield Community Nursery School Board, to leading the home rule referendum and serving as a trustee, I have always stepped up to serve my neighbors by offering my business finance, planning and strategic experience. I’ll improve communication, foster economic growth, support first responders and hold the line on taxes. From replacing Mariano’s to enticing retail and restaurant brands to our community, I will work with our residents to ensure Northfield thrives for years to come.

(Campaign website: www.traceyfornorthfield.com)

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