After nearly 20 years, Joliet mayor to retire

After serving in the post for nearly 20 years, Joliet Mayor Arthur Schultz says he will not seek re-election in April.

In a statement Tuesday, Schultz said it is time for him and the city of Joliet to move on. His current term expires on May 3.

Schultz joked he had plans to stay on until the Chicago Cubs won the National League pennant, adding he didn't think he will live that long.

The 77-year-old Schultz was first elected in 1991. Prior to that he was a 29-year veteran of the Joliet Police Department.

Under Schultz, Joliet saw its economy rejuvenated by two riverboat casinos built in the early 1990s and a strong housing market. The millions of tax dollars generated by the casinos allowed the city to revitalize its central business district.