Outgoing Des Plaines Mayor Ted Sherwood handed over the gavel to his successor, Paul Jung, in a ceremony this week following Jung’s election to the office on April 1.
“I hope the city, under the guidance of Dr. Jung, will accomplish everything I’d hoped to accomplish, and I believe that will happen,” Sherwood said. “I’ve given 110 percent of myself and am glad we’re leaving behind a town that’s in good shape and financially viable.”
Jung, a college teacher, thanked Sherwood for his help during what he called “a smooth transition” to his administration.
Sherwood presided over a ceremony that not only marked the end of his own 4-year term, but also those of 7th Ward Ald. Nick Chiropolos, who did not run for re-election after serving 16 years, and of 5th Ward Ald. Jim Curley, who was edged out April 1 by Carla Brookman.
Don Smith, who won Chiropolos’ seat, re-elected 3rd Ward Ald. Patricia Beauvais and incumbent City Clerk Donna McAllister also were sworn in during the ceremony.
City Treasurer Kenneth Fredricks, a former Des Plaines police officer, said goodbye to colleagues after serving in the post for 12 years. The treasurer’s part-time position was abolished by the City Council at Fredricks’ request last year.
Brookman drew good-natured laughter when she mistakenly returned to her gallery seat after her swearing in rather than taking her seat alongside other aldermen.