A new challenger has entered the race for Galesburg City Council.
Heather Acerra announced she will challenge the incumbent Jaclyn Smith-Esters to represent Ward 5.
Heather Acerra, a local businesswoman who co-founded building toy company Lux Blox, will run for Galesburg City Council in April. Acerra made the announcement Wednesday, setting up a contest between her and Ward 5 incumbent Jaclyn Smith-Esters, although there is still time for other candidates to pick up signatures. Acerra was also formerly at Knox College as the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Career Services. Acerra is a GHS and Knox College graduate, whose family has lived in Galesburg since the late 1800s. She also holds a Master's Degree in Industrial Relations from Loyola University. Acerra has been a part of such local initiatives in the past as creating Quiet Zones in Galesburg and forming youth programs like the Young Marines Band and an art school from her home. She says in her announcement that the city should implement a "baby step" approach to big projects, and how we invest in our community. She cites an investment in a community center, saying,
A candidate for Galesburg City Council in April has emerged in Steve Cheesman. The retired teacher and coach announced Wednesday that he'll run in Ward 7. Cheesman is also Director of the Gale Scholars program and a part time funeral assistant at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Home. He for decades taught social studies at Churchill Junior High and coached a range of local sports teams including basketball, golf, and was the former Head Coach of Post 285 Legion Baseball. Cheesman serves currently on the Galesburg Golf Advisory Commission, and is a member of Galesburg on Track Heart and Soul. Cheesman in his announcement says an Alderman should "truly listen" to citizen concerns and ideas and do this by treating them with respect and dignity. He says he wants many of the same things that other Galesburg residents want, listing streets, safe neighborhoods, things to do and good paying jobs. Cheesman also cites a need to partner with schools, the county, businesses and econo