Election 2013: Robert Sodikoff
Robert Sodikoff is one of three candidates running for Burr Ridge village president in 2013.
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Name: Robert N. Sodikoff
Position sought: Burr Ridge Village President
Website: www.electrobertsodikoff.com
Email: ElectRobertSodikoff@gmail.com
Phone: 312-755-3155
Family: Wife Sharon (married 37 years); children Brian, Michael, Dana and Jamie; grandchildren Lila and Teddy.
Education: University of Illinois, BA, with honors; Northwestern Law School, JD, cum laude.
Occupation: Attorney for 39 years; Partner at Aronberg Goldgehn, Chicago.
Years in Burr Ridge: 25+
Previous elected offices: Trustee, Village of Burr Ridge (1999-2012)
Applicable experience qualifying you for the position: I am currently acting village president having been appointed by unanimous action of the board of trustees. Prior to this appointment, I served as village trustee from 1999 to December 2012. Prior to service as a trustee, I was chairman of the village’s Plan Commission from 1989 to 1999. I also served as chairman of the village’s Economic Development Committee from May 2003 through 2012, and I have also served on various village commissions and committees. As an attorney, I have worked on zoning matters and issues related to real estate development.
What is the primary reason you are running for this office?
It is a natural progression from serving the community for the past 24 years, first as chairman of the Plan Commission and then as a trustee. During this time, I have helped steward the growth of Burr Ridge as a premier residential community. As a representative of the village, I have been involved in virtually every residential and business development during the past 24 years. Together with Jo Irmen, then village president, and Bob Grela, then Plan Commission chairman (and currently a trustee), as a trustee, I was instrumental in bringing the Village Center to Burr Ridge. I am running for village president because I want to preserve the village’s past and protect its future. My past service to the village makes me uniquely qualified to do so.
What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?
My most important priority as village president will be to maintain Burr Ridge as an upscale, safe, residential community while promoting the Village Center and businesses throughout the village which reflect the standards of our community.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
I have served the village for the past 24 years, 14 years as trustee (1999-2012), 10 as chairman of the Plan Commission (1989-1999), and also as chairman of the village’s Economic Development Committee (9 years), and various Village committees. Since my appointment as acting village president, I have made it a point to introduce myself to the elected official on the county boards and in Springfield who serve our community, as well as local business leaders and the residents of Burr Ridge, so that those who have a stake in Burr Ridge are informed and encouraged to engage in a collaborative dialog regarding the village’s future.
What is your favorite thing about Burr Ridge?
I am constantly amazed at the warmth and generosity of our residents. If given the opportunity they are willing to give their time, effort and expertise for the benefit of others. As village president I intend to reach out to residents to get them more involved in community service and with community affairs.
What is your least favorite thing about Burr Ridge?
I am disappointed that Burr Ridge does not have its own zip code. I am constantly frustrated by having to explain to out of state vendors that I do not live in Willowbrook and that packages should list my address as being in Burr Ridge.
What do you think is the role of the village president in Burr Ridge?
As village president I will preserve village assets and protect home values by being fiscally responsible through a balanced budget. I will encourage family friendly growth and development, and foster business growth within the Village Center and throughout the village that is compatible with the community. I will continue to support the Veterans Memorial and the Summer Music/ Jingle Mingle Programs and other governmental programs, such as tree planting and scrub removal, that benefit our residents. I will be an advocate and spokesperson for the village in dealing with state and county officials whose programs affect our community.
