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Burr Ridge Mayor Seeks Higher Office

Burr Ridge Mayor Gary Grasso Announces Bid for Higher Office, Eyes DuPage County Board Chairmanship

BURR RIDGE, IL – In a move that has stirred local political circles, Burr Ridge Mayor Gary Grasso has officially thrown his hat into the ring for a higher office, announcing his candidacy for the position of DuPage County Board Chairman. The announcement, made during a press conference at the village hall on Tuesday, marks a significant escalation in Grasso's political ambitions, building on his tenure as mayor of the affluent suburban community since 2005. Grasso, a Republican with a background in law and business, emphasized his track record of fiscal conservatism, community development, and public safety as key pillars of his campaign, positioning himself as a pragmatic leader ready to tackle county-wide challenges.

Grasso's decision to seek the county board chairmanship comes at a pivotal time for DuPage County, one of Illinois' most populous and economically vibrant regions. The current chairman, Dan Cronin, has served since 2010 and is not seeking re-election, opening the door for a competitive race that could reshape the county's governance. DuPage County, home to over 900,000 residents and a hub for corporate headquarters like those of McDonald's and Navistar, faces ongoing issues such as property tax burdens, infrastructure needs, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on local economies. Grasso, in his announcement speech, highlighted these concerns, stating, "DuPage County deserves leadership that prioritizes efficiency, lowers taxes, and fosters growth without unnecessary bureaucracy. I've done it in Burr Ridge, and I'm ready to do it for the entire county."

A native of the Chicago area, Grasso's political journey began in the private sector, where he built a successful career as an attorney specializing in real estate and corporate law. He founded his own firm, Grasso Law, P.C., which has handled high-profile cases and developments in the region. His entry into public service was motivated by a desire to give back to the community, leading to his election as Burr Ridge mayor in 2005. Over the past 17 years, Grasso has overseen significant transformations in the village, which boasts a population of around 11,000 and is known for its upscale residential areas, parks, and proximity to major highways like I-55 and I-294.

Under Grasso's leadership, Burr Ridge has experienced steady growth and improvements in quality of life. Key achievements include the revitalization of the village's commercial districts, such as the Burr Ridge Village Center, which now features a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options that have boosted local revenue. Grasso has been a staunch advocate for balanced budgets, often pointing to the village's AAA bond rating as evidence of sound financial management. During the height of the pandemic, his administration implemented measures to support small businesses, including streamlined permitting processes and grants for outdoor dining expansions. Public safety has also been a focus, with investments in police technology and community policing initiatives that have kept crime rates low compared to neighboring areas.

Grasso's campaign for county board chairman draws heavily on this municipal experience, framing it as a blueprint for larger-scale governance. "Burr Ridge is a microcosm of DuPage County," Grasso said in an exclusive interview following the announcement. "We've balanced growth with preservation of our community's character, reduced property taxes through efficient spending, and partnered with businesses to create jobs. These are the same principles I'll apply at the county level." He outlined a platform that includes reforming the county's property tax system to provide relief for homeowners, investing in transportation infrastructure to alleviate traffic congestion on major routes like the Tri-State Tollway, and enhancing mental health services in response to rising needs post-pandemic.

The race for DuPage County Board Chairman is expected to be hotly contested, with several other candidates already signaling interest. Among them is Deb Conroy, a Democratic state representative from Villa Park, who has emphasized progressive policies on healthcare and environmental protection. On the Republican side, potential challengers include current board members like Jim Zay or outsiders with ties to the business community. Political analysts note that DuPage County, once a Republican stronghold, has shifted toward purple status in recent elections, with Democrats gaining ground in suburban areas. The 2020 presidential election saw Joe Biden carrying the county by a narrow margin, underscoring the need for candidates to appeal to independents and moderates.

Grasso's entry into the race positions him as a conservative voice with crossover appeal, given his emphasis on bipartisanship. During his time as mayor, he has collaborated with Democratic officials on regional issues, such as water management and flood control projects along the Des Plaines River. Supporters praise his no-nonsense approach, while critics argue that his pro-development stance has sometimes favored commercial interests over residential concerns. For instance, debates over zoning changes in Burr Ridge have occasionally pitted Grasso against environmental groups worried about green space preservation.

Beyond his local record, Grasso brings a broader political resume to the table. He previously ran for Congress in Illinois' 6th District in 2018, challenging incumbent Democrat Sean Casten in a bid that, while unsuccessful, raised his profile statewide. That campaign focused on economic issues, immigration reform, and opposition to federal overreach, themes that resonate with DuPage's suburban voters. Grasso has also been active in the Illinois Republican Party, serving on committees and endorsing candidates who align with fiscal conservatism.

As the campaign ramps up, Grasso plans a series of town halls across DuPage County, starting in communities like Wheaton, Naperville, and Lombard. Fundraising efforts are already underway, with early endorsements from local business leaders and Republican organizations. "This isn't just about politics; it's about service," Grasso remarked. "I've dedicated my career to making communities better, and DuPage County is ready for fresh, effective leadership."

The announcement has generated buzz in Burr Ridge, where residents have mixed reactions. Longtime supporter Mary Ellis, a local business owner, said, "Gary has been a fantastic mayor – he's approachable and gets things done. He'd be great for the county." Conversely, some residents express concern about the village's leadership transition if Grasso wins, as he would likely step down from the mayoral role. Village trustees have indicated they are prepared for such a scenario, with potential interim appointments in place.

Looking ahead, the primary election is slated for June, with the general election in November. Grasso's bid could influence down-ballot races, energizing Republican turnout in a county where turnout has been key to recent shifts. Political observers will be watching closely to see if Grasso's suburban success story translates to county-wide appeal.

In a broader context, Grasso's candidacy reflects a trend in Illinois politics where local leaders are stepping up to address statewide and county issues amid dissatisfaction with Springfield's gridlock. DuPage County, with its diverse demographics – from affluent enclaves like Hinsdale to working-class areas in Addison – requires a leader who can bridge divides. Grasso's platform also touches on hot-button issues like education funding, where he advocates for more local control over school budgets, and public health, proposing partnerships with hospitals to expand access to care.

Critics, however, question whether Grasso's experience in a small village adequately prepares him for managing a county budget exceeding $500 million annually. They point to ongoing debates in DuPage over affordable housing and equity initiatives, areas where Grasso's record is seen as more conservative. In response, Grasso has pledged to listen to all voices, stating, "Diversity of thought is what makes DuPage strong. I'll work with everyone to find common-sense solutions."

As the race unfolds, Grasso's announcement underscores the dynamic nature of suburban politics in Illinois. With his blend of legal expertise, business acumen, and proven leadership, he aims to convince voters that he's the right choice to steer DuPage County into the future. Whether this bid propels him to higher office or serves as another chapter in his public service career remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Gary Grasso is not content to stay put in Burr Ridge.

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