Chirico’s Business Interests Questioned
Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico’s business investments are sparking some controversy after a CBS Chicago report. Mayor Chirico’s family-owned business, Great Western Flooring, has submitted a bid for work on the Central Park Place condominiums, set to begin construction around Old Nichols Library later this spring. Mayor Chirico has advocated for this project throughout its development, though he has stated in the past that he has never vested interest in any development projects in the city. He said in a statement to NCTV- “I believe that I have been fully transparent as a business owner, mayor and now as a second term candidate for mayor. Our family owned business has been proudly providing flooring services to Naperville residents for almost four decades and will continue to do so. I acknowledge that my flooring company was asked to provide a quote on a project for which I supported, however, because of the lines of management we have had in place since I became mayor, I had no knowledge of the interaction. I understand why this could cause concern and I want to reiterate that my business has not, and will not, impact any decisions I make as mayor. I will continue to recuse myself of any vote that comes before me in which my company has a financial interest. I work full-time at City Hall and remain committed to keeping the people of Naperville my priority.” The Central Park Place condos are already selling for up to $1.5 million.
Kucharski in Court
In DuPage County Court this morning, Joseph Kucharski pleaded not guilty to nine counts of aggravated DUI and two counts of reckless homicide. The 51-year old Naperville man is accused of running a red light, striking, and inevitably killing 17-year-old Downers Grove North student Beth Dunlap last month. Authorities say Kucharski was under the influence of crack cocaine and had alcohol in his system when he hit Dunlap. Kucharski will next appear in court on March 29.
InspireU
Dealer Inspire has a unique opportunity for high school and college students coming soon. Inspire University is a digital marketing competition for students who would learn how to help design and build digital marketing campaigns for local nonprofits. The competition takes place on April 6. Applicants have through the end of today, March 15, to register, and it can be done on Dealer Inspire’s website.
STEM Night
Last night the world of STEM was lighting up Meadow Glens Elementary for the school’s fifth annual STEM Discovery Night. Nearly 250 families got to explore over 40 hands-on exhibits from area companies and groups that demonstrated science, technology, engineering, or math. Even scientist turned Congressman Bill Foster joined in the fun. The event is put on entirely by parent volunteers, and is also held to recognize March 14 as Pi Day.
