Rogina won't seek reelection as St. Charles mayor

When looking back on his tenure as the mayor of St. Charles, Ray Rogina couldn't help but look ahead.

Rogina, who has served as the city's mayor since 2013, announced Monday he won't seek a third term in the consolidated election in April.

He reflected on one of his proudest moments in his more than seven years as mayor - the new police headquarters dedicated a year ago. Rogina stressed another proud moment is yet to come when a construction project known as the "Manor Hole" is eventually completed near the entrance of the city's 1st Street corridor.

"After 50 years of public service, you can't help but have great reflection on a lot of things," he said. "It's been a great town and a great career for me."

Rogina, who was a Ward 3 alderman from 2011 until his first mayoral run in 2013, said in a statement he announced now that he won't seek another term to give potential candidates the time they need to consider and develop their candidacies.

"I am so fortunate for having had the opportunity to serve this community that I love for so long and in so many different roles," he said in the statement. "The enrichment I have derived from my role as mayor is beyond description."

Before serving as an alderman, Rogina taught law and economics at St. Charles East High School, formerly St. Charles High School, for more than 30 years and served as the business education department chairman from 1988 to 2002.

Ward 1 Alderman Ron Silkaitis, a member of the Class of 1974 at St. Charles High School, was one of Rogina's students.

"It was fun working with him again, but this time we're older," Silkaitis said with a laugh. "I enjoyed our time together. I'm sorry that he's not running again, but I understand his decision."

After retiring as a teacher, Rogina was elected to a four-year alderman term in 2011. He ran for mayor in April 2013 when Don DeWitte, who had been mayor since 2005, chose not to seek reelection. Rogina won easily against three other candidates and ran unopposed for reelection in 2017.

"The amount of time, passion and joyous personality he gave to us all will be a challenge to replicate," Ward 4 Alderman Lora Vitek said. "Our mayor is a consummate professional and an even better person, and the city council will miss him greatly."

Rogina has been a regular at events throughout St. Charles, something appreciated by members of the community.

"The mayor had advised me of his decision and I am happy that he and his wife, Diane, will be able to take some time to enjoy a much deserved retirement from decades of public service, including an educator, alderman and mayor," St. Charles Chamber of Commerce President Jim Di Ciaula said.

In addition to St. Charles, mayoral contests will be on the April ballot in Batavia, Geneva, Elburn, Sugar Grove and North Aurora.