Skillman beats out Ritter for Carpentersville village president
Retired Fire Chief John Skillman came out victorious over incumbent Ed Ritter Tuesday in the race for Carpentersville village president.
With all 21 precincts reporting, Skillman had 1,083 votes to Ritter's 436 votes, according to unofficial results.
Skillman is a lifelong resident of the village and worked at the fire department for nearly 30 years before retiring last year. He thinks the community needs a leader with a fresh perspective.
He thanked voters in a Facebook post after his victory. He also thanked Ritter for his service.
"It is my absolute honor to be the new president of the village I have called my home for the last 54 years," Skillman said. "Tonight, the new chapter begins in the history of Carpentersville."
Ritter said the village has made great strides to improve its reputation, economy and residents' quality of life since he was first elected to the board as a trustee in 2005.
Upon congratulating his new successor, he said he hopes Skillman serves as an "independent voice for the village."
"I'd like to thank all the citizens for giving me 16 years to serve the village," Ritter said.
Skillman said his goals include lowering taxes, improving efficiency in public safety departments and hiring a professional dedicated to human resources duties, such as leading union negotiations and serving as a liaison between staff members, management and elected officials.