Vitek views role of 4th Ward alderman in St. Charles as advocate

ST. CHARLES – Lora Vitek, the new 4th Ward alderman in St. Charles, has her sights on learning how to be an advocate for the people she serves.

With incumbent Jo Krieger making a successful bid for city treasurer, it ensured a newcomer would join the City Council. Vitek, 39, ran in her first election and earned 430 votes to David Pietryla's 282, according to unofficial results. She said she is eager to study the issues facing the city.

"I value small business and ways to better communicate to bring new businesses into the city and, hopefully, keep businesses that are here," she said.

She said she has a strong interest in historic preservation and recognizes all the positives it brings to St. Charles.

"[I'd like] to make sure I'm a good listener to issues that are at the heart of what individuals want," Vitek said. "I want to do a really good job at listening to constituents."

It was also a first-time election bid for Pietryla, 37, who enjoyed the campaign experience.

"It was fun, exciting," he said. "I've been talking for many years of seeking election. I'm just proud I was able to move forward and run for election and pursue an office."

While he hasn't decided on whether to campaign for an office again, he plans to remain active in the community.

"Historical preservation has been a big deal to me," Pietryla said. "I volunteer at the St. Charles History Museum – I'm going to continue to do that. I'm involved with the Breakfast Rotary in St. Charles. … I'm looking forward to doing some good work with them."

Vitek is employed as director of philanthropy and community relations with Delta Dental of Illinois, and is a director of the Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation. She holds a master's degree in business administration and also one in management of nonprofit administration. She and her husband, Howie, have one daughter and one son.