Politics & Government
Updated: Gilson Resigns as Yorkville Alderman
Ward 1 Alderman George Gilson Jr. served most of his first four-year tern before announcing his resignation Tuesday.
Mayor Gary Golinski is accepting applications for a Ward 1 alderman after George Gilson Jr. announced his resignation Tuesday in light of a job promotion that involves moving to Iowa.
Gilson, whose first term expires in April, said he enjoyed the public service and maintained his principles. He frequently discouraged his colleagues against spending outside basic necessities – such as road improvements – and sometimes cast the lone vote against measures.
“If I could retake any or all votes I have cast within the time I have served, I would not change even one of them,” Gilson said. “The people of Yorkville are great and I love this community, although I am deeply concerned with the path in which we are headed.”
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He used some of the final moments of his final City Council meeting to discourage the remaining aldermen from purchasing the REC Center.
“I truly hope you vote no to and listen to the voice of the people, both in person and via referendum,” said Gilson.
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Golinski said he would seek resumes and/or letters of interest from those interested in being appointed to serve the rest of Gilson’s term. Gilson’s replacement must have lived in Ward 1 for at least a year, not owe the city any money and not have a criminal history, Golinski said.
Golinski will accept applications for Gilson's replacement through Aug. 22; the mayor is responsible for appointing the new alderman with the advice and consent of the rest of the City Council. The appointee will be expected to attend the Aug. 28 City Council meeting, according to the city's Facebook page.
"If you live in Ward 1 and are interested in serving as an alderman through April 2013, please submit a resume and completed application form to Mayor Golinski at 800 Game Farm Road, Yorkville, IL 60560 or to ggolinski@comcast.net," according to the Facebook post.
Click here for the application. Click here for a Ward 1 map.
Editor's note: This article was updated about 3 p.m. Wednesday with information on applying for the vacant position.
