Pandemic we experienced was fact, not an ‘unproven entity’
I was interested in the letter in the Feb. 23 Naperville Sun from Bill Voda, who draws a line from COVID precautions to the problem of homelessness in DuPage County. I am particularly intrigued by his use of quotation marks regarding the word “pandemic.”
Such epidemiological terms have firm definitions. We did not lose millions of people to an unproven entity. We should be able to agree that 7 million people worldwide died of an infectious disease, constituting a pandemic.
Now, having accepted that fact, we may, with the benefit of hindsight, discuss the measures that were taken when more than 10,000 people a week were dying of COVID-19, with an eye to future responses to the next novel pathogen.
Dr. Matthew J. Bueche, Naperville
Ashfaq’s track record shows him worthy of council seat
As a longtime public servant, Ashfaq Syed has been a driving force for positive change in Naperville, with a proven track record of leadership, collaboration and fiscal responsibility. He listens, leads with integrity, engages with residents and gets the job done, qualities we need on the Naperville City Council.
As president of the Naperville Library Board, Ashfaq helps ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely while maintaining one of the nation’s top-rated library system’s, a true gem in our community. He understands budgets, asks the right questions and works to guarantee every dollar benefits residents — the same approach he will take in managing city finances.
When Naperville needed leadership for the 2020 Census, Ashfaq stepped up, leading a campaign that resulted in the highest self-reporting rate in the nation, securing millions in funding for our city. With a distinguished career in banking and finance, he will bring fiscal responsibility and practical solutions to city government.
Ashfaq’s leadership extend’s to strengthening our community. As a board member for Loaves and Fishes, he works to ensure families don’t go hungry. As a Naperville Fire and Police Academy graduate, he understands what first responders need to keep our city safe. And when Naperville faced challenges with new mosque development, Ashfaq worked with neighbors and elected officials to create solutions everyone could support.
He leads by bringing people together, showing up, building consensus and moving Naperville forward — responsibly. That’s the leadership we need on city council.
Vote Ashfaq Syed for Naperville City Council, a proven leader, committed to Naperville’s future and the betterment of our residents.
Lyndsey Kasson Kokoris, Naperville
Sure you can call, but don’t assume anyone will answer
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recently sent me a very lengthy letter concerning my driver’s license renewal. He even gave the phone number to call to make an appointment.
But he left out one thing — how long it would take to get someone to answer. I was on the phone for more than an hour waiting for a representative to pick up. I kept getting a message on how important my call was every two or three minutes until I finally hung up.
I then called the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles’ office in Naperville and they told me I could not reserve an appointment time for more than a week in advance.
My tax dollars at work.
Charles Brown, Naperville
Trio of city candidates offer ‘experience, foresight, creativity’
Naperville’s public safety is a cornerstone of its appeal as a family-friendly community. Among the 2025 Naperville City Council candidates, Derek McDaniel, Jennifer Bruzan Taylor and Meghna Bansal stand out as the best fits to uphold and enhance this priority for Naperville.
Derek McDaniel brings a practical, community-first perspective. With his experience on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission, he understands how development impacts safety and how important it is to ease traffic stress and improve emergency response times. His business background is needed as is his commitment to supporting well-funded police and fire services without overburdening taxpayers.
Jennifer Bruzan Taylor is an incumbent with a proven track record. She’s championed initiatives like expanding electric vehicle use, indirectly enhancing safety by reducing emissions-related health risks. Her council experience has prepared her to balance growth with Naperville’s top-tier safety standards.
Meghna Bansal offers fresh energy. Having attended every council meeting for more than two years, she’s focused on public safety concerns. Her experience as a former township trustee will help her manage budgets and her focus on sustainable growth demonstrates a proactive approach. She aims to keep Naperville accessible and safe for all.
Together, they blend experience, foresight and creativity. In a city facing growth pressures, this trio offers a balanced, forward-thinking approach to keep Naperville a secure home for all residents.
Heather Jurkowski, Naperville
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