Note: This is the fourth in a 10-part series introducing candidates who are on the ballot for the first time in village board races in Homewood and Flossmoor. Flossmoor has a surge in trustee candidates this year. In 2023, four candidates ran for three four-year terms. This year, two incumbents are seeking re-election, and five newcomers are competing for the three open seats. More information about candidates will appear in the Chronicle’s March 1 edition.
Belgee Falkner has a long view of Flossmoor. His family has lived in the village for nearly half of its 100 years.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes in our community,” he said. “I remember when a lot of the community wasn’t even built yet.”
After growing up in the village and raising his family there, the businessman decided it was time to give back by running for village board.
He may have gotten a few nudges, too, from neighbors.
“Many of my neighbors I’ve known through the years asked me to get involved on another level,” he said. “They asked me to be a voice for the community.”
The controversial Heather Hill storm water detention basin built last year adjacent to Heather Hill School was a factor, he said.
“A lot of residents felt like they needed another voice,” he said, noting he’s heard people say they are concerned the basin’s possible effect on property values.
He said he sees the importance of economic development and of supporting existing businesses in order to keep the community thriving.
“I see how business works hand in hand with property value,” he said.
Keeping support for local businesses strong is a challenge for the community.
“We have to draw people in to go to our restaurants and different things right here in our community,” he said. “How do we get our own residents involved?”
One key is public safety, which he sees as necessary for business to thrive.
