The Times They Are A-Changin’

This week, I announced that I was resigning from the Frankfort Village Board. It was an extraordinary tough decision - one which I grappled with for some time. Work, School, a huge life change - marriage - is a lot to handle. Something had to give. Unfortunately, at this point, it was public service. A more in-depth discussion of why I'm leaving is here. I've invested a lot of time and energy in to Frankfort and I'm proud of what we've been able to accomplish these past 5 years. As I wrote in my letter to the Mayor:

It is with a heavy heart and much emotion that I submit my resignation from the Frankfort Village Board of Trustees effective Friday, April 4, 2008.

Our country’s democracy was founded on the premise of “citizen democracy” and service. Leaders were elected, worked for their constituents and when their time was up, they went home. Increasingly today, we’ve moved away from that model to one of career politicians. I admire our Founding Fathers and their contributions to our country not only for what they did, but how they served their country and then went on with their lives. With that notion in my mind, it is time for me to step away from Village government.

With additional responsibilities at work during the day including an increasing amount of travel, coupled with the upcoming nuptials to my wonderful fiancé Natalie, my ability to focus on Village of Frankfort matters is not where it needs to be. Stepping away from the Board at this time is the right thing to do for the residents of Frankfort. Their interests are at the top of my mind.

The past five years have been a wonderful experience and I relish the time spent with you and the entire Village Board as well as past Clerk Tom Bartkus, current Clerk Kate Romani and former Mayor Ray Rossi. I’ve learned a lot from all of you. I appreciate your patience with me and your support on my many initiatives including the Hybrid Vehicle Tax Waiver, impact fee increases, ethics ordinances, and downtown wi-fi.

We’ve accomplished quite a bit in the five years since I’ve joined the Board, but there is more work to be done. With the steady hand of Administrator Jerry Ducay and your leadership, I’m certain that I’m leaving the residents of Frankfort in very capable hands. The Board will continue to lead Frankfort forward in both economic and quality of life issues.

Frankfort is such a special place and the Board is entrusted to ensure that it remains that way for future generations. I wish you and the Board much success. Don’t forget to keep growth in check and continue to uphold extraordinarily high standards for development. Also, don’t forget to consider the people of Frankfort in all of your decisions – they’re what make Frankfort a truly special place.

Thank you, mostly, to the residents of Frankfort who have twice voted to allow me to represent their interests on the Board. It has been an honor to do their work.

I couldn't have gotten this far without help from my family and friends - most notably my Dad. With his hard work, he propelled me to office. I've met some incredible people throughout this process. Greg Griffin will be a lifetime friend. I appreciate his efforts on my behalf. During my time in office, I've lost one good friend - Dan Hattan - someone who guided me and provided counsel in tough times. For that, I will be forever grateful.

I'll give my time on the board a more thorough post-mortem another time. For now, all I can say is "Thanks and I'll see you guys around town."