North Aurora will have new president in 2009

North Aurora Village President John Hansen has decided not to seek re-election next year.

And four other people are vying to wield the gavel.

Trustees Dale Berman, Linda Mitchell and Max Herwig; and Mark Vogt all filed petitions for the presidency.

"It's a combination of a lot of things," Hansen said recently, explaining he wants to spend more time with his family and that his job as an area director for a pharmaceutical company is requiring more out of state travel. Hansen has spent nearly 20 years in village government, including stints as trustee from 1988 to 1997 and 1998 to 2005.

When asked, he said he will be supporting Mitchell. He agreed with some of her votes on economic development for the village, including her support for building a Wal-Mart on the west side of town (which the board rejected).

"I think that shows she's looking forward," Hansen said.

Village Clerk Lori Murray filed for re-election. Nobody else filed for the position.

Three people are seeking a seat on the village board: current Trustee Mark Gaffino, Chris Faber and Vincent Mancini.

Herwig's and Mitchell's trustee terms expire in April.

Hansen has been president since 2005. Herwig ran for president in 2005, but lost in a primary.

Berman was village president from 1985 to 1989.