'A man of wisdom and knowledge': Taylor resigns after 12 years on Lake County Board

Longtime Lake County Board member, forest preserve commissioner and champion of stormwater management Craig Taylor of Lake Zurich has resigned.

Taylor was appointed in 2009 to the 19th District seat covering Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer and portions of Long Grove. He was elected to three subsequent terms and built a reputation as a humble, diplomatic and knowledgeable elected official who acted in best interest of and made an impact on the area and county he served.

A former Lake Zurich village trustee a resident of the village for 45 years, Taylor is retired from United Airlines, where he worked in management for 40 years.

Taylor is moving to Colorado to be with his children and grandchildren. He explained to constituents that "family circumstances presented themselves which require my full attention."

The resignation has been in the works for awhile and became effective after the county and forest boards meetings Tuesday.

Both boards recognized Taylor for his service with proclamations. Many commented on his statesmanship and contributions.

County Board Chair Sandy Hart said Taylor hoped to leave quietly "but too many people wanted to honor you and the work you've done."

He was recognized for his involvement with transportation improvements, such as the widening of Quentin Road, and leadership in working with Hawthorn Woods and North Barrington to develop an agreement regarding the development of the Dimucci property at Route 12 and Old McHenry Road.

County board members also serve as forest preserve commissioners. In that role, Taylor was cited for his expertise in securing $14 million in grants and donations.

Forest board President Angelo Kyle described Taylor as a "man of wisdom and knowledge."

"He has made Lake County a better place to live in because of his service," Kyle said.

Taylor chaired the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission. He said he delayed retirement to find a replacement for Executive Director Mike Warner, who retired in December.

In comments submitted to the county board, Warner said Taylor "exemplifies the best qualities of an elected official."

Taylor is a Republican whose term expires in 2022. According to state law, Hart, with the advice and consent of the county board, has to appoint a replacement of the same party within 60 days.