Kane's Seyller won't seek re-election

When the final gavel falls in the lawsuit between the Kane County Board and Kane County Circuit Court Clerk Deb Seyller, at least one outcome is now known. The board will soon never have another budget battle with Seyller.

Seyller announced Friday she will not run for re-election next year.

A letter released to the media lists 22 years of accomplishments and awards in the circuit court clerk's office. Better technology, fewer delays in the system and improved customer service are highlights Seyller pointed to.

There is no mention of the lawsuit that goes back to last year's budget regarding $560,000 in additional funds to meet payroll. The lawsuit has cost taxpayers at least $380,000 in legal fees thus far. Before the lawsuit came lengthy and emotional verbal battles between county board members and Seyller during budget meetings.

Seyller said Friday she didn't factor any of that into her decision. Indeed, despite the political black eyes, Seyller said she could win if she ran for re-election.

“I've gotten a lot of support from both sides of the aisle,” Seyller said. “They appreciate the fact that I'm standing up for good government. I really don't want any of the politics to cloud my choice. The reality is I never intended to stay in this office in government. I thought it would look good on my resume. But then I just fell in love with the work. I've never liked politics. But as far as politics goes, I think I'm a good strategist.”

Seyller said she's leaving the office to explore a new career in the private sector. She doesn't have a specific job lined up, but Seyller believes she has a resume that will stand out even in a tough economy.

“I don't know what's out there,” she said. “I'm just kind of really excited about the potential. In all honesty, the CEOs I've met in this job think if you work in government you're lazy. I always say to them laziness doesn't exist in my office.”

Seyller's departure will create an open race. That will add to the potential for a full reset of Kane County government during the next local elections. Every county board seat will be up for re-election. Kane County Board Chairman Karen McConnaughay is leaving to run for state senate. Coroner Chuck West has committed to not run again. And Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon will see his first election since being appointed to the position.

Seyller said she hopes the person who replaces her leaves in place the staff and structure she created. While she's committed to her employees, Seyller said she won't throw her support behind any candidate who decides to run.

“I have seen what happens in Kane County,” Seyller said. “They like to choose their own. I just firmly believe that it's the next person's battle to win. I won't get involved. I don't care who it is.”