Elgin salutes Schock, Warren for their service
Outgoing Elgin Mayor Ed Schock served at his last council meeting Wednesday and, along with outgoing Councilman Mike Warren, received recognition for his time in office.
Councilman Bob Gilliam read a proclamation of appreciation for Schock and presented him with a painting of the riverfront, acknowledging the mayor's years of dedication to developing the area.
The proclamation recognized Schock's service on boards and commissions, his work in the creation of a code department for the city and rental apartment inspections and his push for westward expansion, economic development, the building of The Centre and revitalization of downtown.
Gilliam, who was first elected to the council in 1973, worked with Schock for the entirety of his 18 years with the city, first as a councilman and then as mayor.
“He is probably the most outstanding councilman I've served with in my entire career,” Gilliam said.
Schock, fighting to keep his emotions in check, thanked his colleagues, family and city staff members for their work to make Elgin a better place. But he also admonished a portion of the community for what he called an unhealthy trend of personal attacks against those running for office.
“Too often now we have people who make sport of those who serve with mindless, senseless criticism — often anonymous criticism,” Shock said. “Those people are an anathema to a functioning democracy. They add nothing and contribute nothing to the advancement of this community.”
Schock read the proclamation honoring Mike Warren for his two years of service, specifically mentioning his work on economic development and advocacy as chair of the Lord's Park task force. Warren received a painting of the park pavilion as his parting gift.
Warren said he always voted in what he thought was the best interests of the city's long-term success, never compromising his values.
“I'm proud of my service on the council to the citizens of Elgin,” Warren said, later alluding to the potential of a future run for a council seat.
Standing ovations from councilmen, community members and staff saw the two men off.