Bob O'Connor for at-large For alderman at-large, our choice is Bob O'Connor.

O'Connor has been alderman at-large since 1985, and is seeking a sixth four-year term. As chairman of the Finance Committee, we value his intimate knowledge of the city budget and the manner in which it is determined and executed. His expertise will be an asset to the new mayor. Further, we respect the independence he has shown. He has not been afraid to cast a vote that dissents from the majority position, and he has been especially firm on businesses' applications for assistance, insisting that they draw on public funds no more than necessary.

The other candidate, Jeffrey D. Donelson, is making his second bid for alderman, and received this newspaper's endorsement in his first campaign. He says the council needs new people if it wants better results. He stresses crime as his chief concern, and wants to create a support network for at-risk youngsters and their families that includes local churches partnering with police and social service agencies. While there might be merit in that concept, the churches and social service agencies could get that rolling, then ask for city support. Donelson also looks askance at ward funds, and suggests that money could support the new police headquarters the city needs.

O'Connor's ideas are more firmly grounded in the realities of budget and city responsibilities, and we endorse him for re-election based on his strong record.

Beacon News (http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/beaconnews/opinions/a03edit.htm)