Carpentersville trustee resigns after job forces relocation

Carpentersville Trustee Diane Lawrence has stepped down after changes in her job forced her to relocate.

Lawrence, who was elected to her first term in 2017, announced her resignation in a letter read during last week's village board meeting by Trustee Jeff Frost.

"I am truly satisfied with all the growth, opportunities, progress and successes we have made for our residents, businesses and village employees," she said in the letter. "Thank you to all of our residents for giving me the opportunity to be part of this amazing community and (work) with this strong and dedicated team."

While serving on the board, Lawrence worked on the village's recently created special events and parks commission, aimed at organizing community gatherings and promoting Carpentersville's family-friendly atmosphere. In her letter, she praised committee members for their work to "bring our village one step above the rest."

She also thanked village employees and touted the dedication of Village President John Skillman, who she said keeps residents top of mind while facing each new challenge.

"I look forward to sharing in the successes, hearing about our accomplishments and visiting the community," Lawrence told residents. "You're in good hands with a fantastic dream team that will continue to put our community first."

Lawrence's resignation, effective immediately, means Skillman will have to fill his fourth board vacancy since he was elected to his first term in 2017. The appointment must be approved by the village board.

Last year, Skillman appointed John O'Sullivan to the board after longtime resident and Trustee Pat Schultz died unexpectedly in October 2017. Weeks later, Frost took over the seat of former Trustee Jeff Sabbe, who moved out of state. Former Trustee Don Burroway, who moved to Texas upon his retirement, was replaced this past spring by Maria Vela.