Dupage Policy Journal

Public leader, performer and Glen Ellyn native Bobby McNeily holds community values close to home as he gears up his campaign for Wheaton City Council, running as a Republican with multiple initiatives in mind.

McNeily currently works as leadership director at Turning Point USA, a nonprofit founded in Wheeling in 2012 which educates students in fiscal responsibility, free markets and limited government. He also has a professional performing arts background.

“We can strengthen Wheaton today and create a stronger future for our community,” the candidate recently said on his website as he listed incentives and asked voters to support him on April 4. "I'm running for City Council because I can bring fresh ideas and solutions that work for Wheaton.”

Those ideas include fortifying bonds and trust among citizens, local businesses and government; attracting new business and enhancing communication among residents, commercial entities and city authorities; and working with the local Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Wheaton Association.

McNeily offered fiscal strategies based on minimizing property taxes and encouraging financial health through free enterprise and capital campaigns. He expressed a specific desire to restore the Wheaton Grand Theatre, a historic downtown structure with a capacity to seat 1,000 guests that first opened in 1925.

With strong ties to his immediate surroundings, McNeily has been active in several civic organizations including Knights of Columbus, Rotary and Lions clubs. He led the Wheaton Community Relations Commission, served on committees for the Milton Township Republican Organization, and participated at St. Michael Church.