Retiring St. Charles Ward 3 alderperson receives key to city as successor is appointed

St. Charles Mayor Lora Vitek appointed Robert Gehm as Ward 3 alderperson and honored retiring Alderperson Todd Bancroft with a key to the city at the council meeting Monday night.

Gehm is replacing Bancroft, who did not run for reelection but retained his seat after the April 4 election after unopposed Ward 3 candidate John Edward Frank withdrew from the race.

Because no Ward 3 alderperson was elected, Vitak announced last month the city would accept applications and interview candidates and that Bancroft would keep his seat until a replacement was chosen.

Gehm has been a St. Charles resident for 33 years and served on the Liquor Control Commission for the last 10 years. He holds a degree in accounting from Lewis University and works as a finance manager at Ox Industries in Aurora.

Gehm will serve the remainder of Bancroft's term, ending April 30, 2025. Gehm will be sworn in at city hall on June 26.

At Bancroft's final meeting, former Mayor Ray Rogina gave a speech honoring the work Bancroft has done in his 10 years serving as Ward 3 alderperson.

Rogina was Bancroft's teacher at St. Charles High School in the 1980s. In 2013, Bancroft was elected to fill Rogina's seat when he became mayor. Rogina said Bancroft is at the top of his list of students who have made him proud.

"We have all been beneficiaries of a guy who wanted to give back to the community he loves," Rogina said.

Vitek also said a few words about the dedication Bancroft has shown in his time on the council and thanked him for his guidance before presenting him with a key to the city.

"You truly make decisions and do what you do up there because it's the right thing for the people of St. Charles - not the right thing for you," Vitek said. "I love that, and I think that's a great example to set for new aldermen and new commissioners. Thank you for everything."

Bancroft first thanked his wife, Michelle, for her support. He also thanked Rogina, Vitek and former alderperson Dan Stellato.

Bancroft gave credit to city staff.

"They are second to none. You all make us look so good," Bancroft said. "We are truly the luckiest city in the world because you all care so much, you're so diligent, you work so hard, and it's just a fantastic environment that you've all created."

Bancroft closed by thanking his fellow aldermen, saying, "It's been a great ride, and I love this city."