Geneva investigating streets superintendent

The city of Geneva is investigating whether its streets superintendent misappropriated city funds, according to a news release from the office of the mayor and city administrator.

The city announced Thursday that Steve LeMaire has been suspended without pay while administrators and Geneva police investigate the allegations.

LeMaire, who lives in Elburn, has worked for the city for 33 years.

He was suspended Jan. 12, when the city said it began its investigation.

The statement about the suspension did not detail why the city thinks money was misused, how it may have been done, and how much money is involved.

Police chief Steve Mexin would not provide that information, saying it was inappropriate to do so during the investigation. He confirmed police were called in to the investigation Jan. 12, and said they are still gathering information to determine if a crime took place. Once their report is complete, the information will be turned over to the city administrator, and city officials will decide how to proceed, he said. Mexin expects to wrap the investigation next week.

“There’s not much more I can say on the matter,” Mexin said.

LeMaire could not be reached for comment.

Mayor Kevin Burns also declined to comment because of the ongoing investigation.

LeMaire oversees the streets division of the public works department. The streets division is responsible for maintaining and repairing streets, sidewalks, alleys, commuter and public parking lots, signs and pavement markings. It also operates and maintains the city’s two cemeteries, manages parkway trees, removes snow and ice from streets and downtown sidewalks, provides support services for city festivals and maintains vehicles for all city departments.