Two Niles Trustees Widen Their Political Spheres; One May Clear Path To Mayor's Office

Niles Trustee Chris Hanusiak has been appointed to a state advisory committee, and fellow Trustee Andrew Przybylo is working with state legislators to try to pass a bill that would allow liquor license holders, like himself, to also be mayors.

However, Przybylo told the Journal & Topics he isn't declaring his candidacy for mayor.

Both are widening their political spheres of influence into state politics.

Topinka selects Hanusiak

Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka asked Hanusiak to serve on her Polish  Advisory Council; she has several advisory committees across different interest groups, including ethnic groups, women and rural constituents.

A Polish-American staff member in Topinka's office noticed Hanusiak's involvement in the Polish American community and recommended him.

"I'm just happy to be invited," Hanusiak said. "It gives me the opportunity to be more active in the Polish community."

A press release from Topinka's office, pasted below, identified him as a Niles business owner of , but not as a trustee.

State legislators help Przybylo's bid to clear legal obstacle

Illinois law prohibits liquor license holders from serving as mayors of municipalities, and Przybylo, as an owner of in Niles, holds a liquor license. State Representative Lou Lang, who represents the Skokie area, authored a bill that would allow liquor license holders to also be mayors, according to the Journal and Topics. Under the terms of the bill, they would have to appoint someone else as liquor commissioner.

State Reps. John D'Amico, a Democrat, and Michael McAuliffe, a Republican, both of whom represent part of Niles, signed on as sponsors of the bill, which passed the House Oct. 27. The state Senate is considering the bill during its fall veto session.

Przybylo told the newspaper he is not declaring candidacy, but would like the opportunity to run.

Przybylo has not yet returned a call to Patch; Patch will update if the situation changes.

More information on Hanusiak appointment

The press release from Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka's office follows:

Niles Businessman Joins Topinka Advisory Council

Comptroller seeks counsel from professionals, local leaders

CHICAGO – Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka announced that Krysztof Hanusiak, owner of Royal Kitchen and Bath Cabinets, has agreed to serve on her office’s newly formed 10-member Polish Advisory Council.

Scheduled to meet quarterly, the Council will advise the Comptroller on issues of importance to the community and assist in formation of initiatives to address those concerns.

“Chris brings a wealth of experience and insight that will serve this Council well,” said Topinka of the Niles businessman. “I appreciate his willingness to join the group, and look forward to many meaningful discussions in the months ahead.”

The volunteer Council is one of several advisory panels created by Topinka to ensure direct communication with communities throughout the state. Other Advisory Councils include: African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic, Rural Affairs, and Women. Advisory Council members come from a variety of backgrounds, geographic regions and areas of expertise.

Topinka will work with each group to propose and/or promote possible and existing legislation to advance the well-being of respective communities. For more information on the Comptroller’s Office, please visit: www.illinoiscomptroller.com.

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