Jeanne Balmes retires after nearly 25 years as Gurnee village trustee

The Gurnee village board has lost a longtime presence with the departure of veteran Trustee Jeanne Balmes.

Balmes, a nationally recognized florist and for years a local business owner, announced her retirement Monday after nearly 25 years in the position.

Balmes leaves a “lasting legacy of leadership, civic involvement and commitment to the Gurnee community,” the village said in a social media post thanking her for many years of leadership and service.

“Her contributions have made a lasting impact, and we wish her all the best in this next chapter,” the post continued.

Elected in May 2001, Balmes was the top vote-getter in five of the next six successive municipal elections. Her current term ends April 30, 2029.

At the May 4 board meeting, Mayor Thomas Hood said he'll appoint, subject to board approval, Liliana Ware to serve until the next municipal election in April 2027, when the remaining two years of Balmes' term will be on the ballot. Ware is a member of the village's planning and zoning board.

According to the post, Balmes has played an important role in guiding the village through years of growth and progress.

“Her decision to serve was rooted in a deep love for Gurnee and a desire to help keep the community moving forward,” it reads.

Balmes was quoted as saying that as a business owner with involvement in many organizations, she needed to become an active member of the village board to keep Gurnee moving in a positive direction.

“Her leadership, perspective and dedication have made a meaningful impact on countless initiatives and helped shape Gurnee into the thriving community it is today,” the post reads.

She was honored at Monday's village board meeting. Hood said Balmes was dedicated to the village and will be missed.

He noted Balmes stood by her convictions and that the board and village were better for it.