Elgin city manager passes the torch to Stegall

Femi Folarin had an interesting seat for Wednesday's Elgin City Council meeting: the audience.

Folarin, who has served as Elgin city manager since 2005, turned over his spot on the dais to his successor Sean Stegall and even replaced his nameplate with Stegall's.

"I truly admire the dedication shown by all of you serving the city of Elgin. My gratitude also goes to the city staff and all employees," said Folarin, who is retiring from his post and whose last day is Tuesday, June 30.

This past spring, the city council named Stegall, formerly the assistant city manager, to take Folarin's spot.

"This is a difficult time in our nation's history. Times like these call for good leadership," Folarin said, noting Stegall has the education and experience to move the city forward.

"There is no doubt Sean will hit the ground running."

Mayor Ed Schock presented Folarin, who was first hired by the city in 1989 as human resources director, with a proclamation.

"He's been a unifier. He has united and brought together the city staff," Schock said of Folarin. "He has gained the respect of almost everyone I know."

Folarin will be a tough act to follow, said Robert Gilliam, a city council member since 1973.

"He's done an outstanding job. He's one of the few city managers who's been able to unite the council," Gilliam said. "I've had the opportunity to hire six city managers and Mr. Folarin's No. 1 by far. Sean has big shoes to fill. I know he'll do a good job."