In light of the upcoming elections, Sycamore Mayor John Swedberg has challenged his opponents to debate the issues.

Swedberg said a debate would help voters determine who would best reflect the voice of the community so they can make an educated decision on April 5.

“There has never been a debate,” he said. “I want to debate so that voters can make an informed decision.”

Swedberg said he wants to get to know the people in the community and plans on doing door to door campaigning.

One opponent, Earl Gabel, said his availability is what needs to be debated.

“I’ve heard that it takes a while to get in touch with the mayor, and if you’re gonna hold an office like that, and the people wanna talk, you better be ready,” said Gabel, franchise owner of Just Your Type Transcription Service, 327 Somonauk St.

Gabel said if elected mayor, he would be more of an instrument for what the people need.

Gabel said he has no previous experience in politics, but has been in the business field for eight years.

Instead of complaining about the issues, something should be done about them, Gabel said.

“I don’t agree with the way the city is being run,” he said.

The candidates said one issue concerning citizens is the growth of the community, as Sycamore has continued to add new businesses throughout the city.

Swedberg said while in office, Sycamore received the highest possible financial rating from Moody’s Investor Service, a New York based organization that rates cities on their financial status.

Swedberg said that if he is re-elected, he plans to maintain the financial strength of the community through new commercial and industrial industries.

“We are very prudent with the taxpayers’ money,” he said.

Swedberg also said he wants to continue lowering property taxes.

“My plan is to look at projects for the future,” he said.

Swedberg said he has plans for a second fire station and public transportation.

Although Gabel said he was not opposed to growth in the community, he said it needs to be controlled.

“The biggest issue is growth and how it is going to affect us, and I think there should be a plan to manage it,” Gabel said.

Though they disagree on the issues at hand, Gabel said he respects both parties and that he would not object a debate or open forum, although no date has been set.