Geneva's community service award goes to developer Shodeen

Like any developer, Kent Shodeen has banged heads with city officials and residents on occasion. He's just done it more than others, because he's been developing for close to 50 years.

But there is little denying that without him, Geneva wouldn't be quite the same place.

Shodeen, one of the most prolific developers and generous donors in Geneva's history, was honored Tuesday night with the city's most prestigious recognition: the 2010 Wood Community Service Award presented by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce.

Shodeen, the founder and CEO of Shodeen Inc., became the 26th person to earn the Wood award, given annually to an individual who has made significant contributions in business, education, youth involvement, civic organizations, arts, recreation, charity or government.

“I've always been very proud to be a citizen of Geneva. It's a great city with great civic pride,” said a surprised Shodeen, who did not learn of his honor until chamber board member Scott Lebin announced it to the gathering at Eaglebrook Country Club.

“I have not always seen eye-to-eye with every plan commissioner or Mayor I have had to work with, and we've had our battles and our conversations,” Shodeen acknowledged. “But we always worked together for the good of Geneva.

“I give credit to those mayors and I think I have worked with about 12 of them now and the other public officials who do that kind of work,” Shodeen said. “I would never have taken the time to do it and I probably couldn't win an election.”

Shodeen, whose company has built more than 5,000 houses in the Fox Valley area, as well as commercial developments such as Mill Creek Golf Course and the Dodson Place retail district on Third Street, said he felt he always had a good partnership with the city.

“It allowed for some give-and-take, and it helped make this town great,” he said. “I just want to thank you for letting me be a part of it.”

Shodeen has been active in landmark restoration projects when converting the former Creamery building along the Fox River into the Herrington Inn and Spa.

Shodeen and his family have lived in Geneva for more than 50 years, eventually creating The Shodeen Family Foundation, which he and his wife Joan started in 1999. All four of his children Beth, Craig, Eric and Anna are involved in the family business.

Many organizations have benefited from financial or volunteer support from Shodeen, including the Delnor Foundation Board, the Classic Car Club of America, Geneva History Center, Geneva High School, CASA Kane County, Habitat for Humanity, Northern Illinois Food Bank and TriCity Family Services.

The award is named in honor of William and Elise Wood and Nell and Burt Wood, members of a family with a long track record of public service and generosity toward the city. William C. Wood was the first recipient of the award in 1985, and Sam and Carolyn Hill were given the honor last year.