When most McHenry County voters go to the polls, they'll have a choice of nine candidates for three six-year terms on the McHenry County College Board of Trustees.

Having three times the number of candidates than available seats gives voters plenty of good choices. Perhaps it also signals that some are unhappy with the direction the board is going and change is being demanded.

Regardless, voters must get informed about the candidates so they can make informed choices when they cast their ballots.

MCC is a vital community asset that must continue to address the county's education and workforce needs.

Like all higher education institutions, MCC has faced challenges recently. Declining state funding, rising tuition costs, and a proposed $42 million expansion plan are just a few things that have kept MCC in the news recently.

With these challenges come opportunities, and the chance to emerge stronger than before. That's why we are endorsing Chris Jenner, Mike Smith, Molly Walsh and Thomas Wilbeck.

All four advocate for greater transparency, building stronger relationships between the college and local businesses, and getting taxpayer approval to pay for any potential expansions. We agree that all of these are essential.

Each of these candidates also would bring unique perspectives to the board.