Village Board Bids Farewell to Anderson, Welcomes Windon

The Barrington Board of Trustees said goodbye to long time colleague Jeff Anderson on Monday, and welcomed new member Robert Windon.

Anderson decided not to run for re-election this year and Windon, a McHenry County Assistant State’s Attorney, secured enough votes to take Anderson’s seat on the board. Incumbents Jim Daluga and Paul Hunt also won re-election to the board. All three men were sworn in at the board meeting on May 9.

It wasn’t easy for Village President Karen Darch and fellow members of the Board of Trustees to say goodbye to Anderson. Anderson served as a Village of Barrington Trustee for six years. During that time, he also held additional responsibilities as a member of the Administration and Finance Committee, the Planning and Zoning and Economic Development Committee and the 2015 Sesquicentennial Committee.

“On behalf of the President of the Board of Trustees and the staff of the Village of Barrington, we do collectively express our deepest thanks to Jeff Anderson for his contributions to the betterment of the village and gratefully recognize his public service,” President Darch read in a resolution.

After President Darch’s resolution was passed, Anderson gave a heartfelt speech reflecting on his time as a trustee.

“[As trustees] we all come with different perspectives and ideas. The great thing is we always have a healthy dialogue,” Anderson said. “The one thing I’ve always found is that we always put the community first.”

Anderson also spoke about his decision to not seek another term in office.

“My decision not to run wasn’t an easy one. I feel like there was some unfinished business. I think we’ll all say that when it comes time to step down,” he said. “I personally wanted to take the opportunity to give back to the community in some different ways, which I will continue to do, and also let others contribute. I think Robert [Windon] is going to be a great addition to the board.”

Anderson’s fellow board members bid farewell to their friend with some genuine comments given at the end of the meeting.

“It’s been a great six years getting to know you and really developing a friendship and an admiration for you, so thank you,” Trustee Beth Raseman said.

Trustee Jim Daluga had similar words of praise for Anderson.

“It’s been an honor and a pleasure and a privilege to serve with someone who cares so much about this town,” he said.

Newcomer Windon was the last to speak about Anderson, and also gave his thoughts on his new journey serving the Village of Barrington.

“Jeff, thank you for your years and thank you for your time. And in many ways, thank you for deciding to take some time for yourself,” he said. “I’m looking forward to this opportunity…I’m looking forward to getting to work and getting going from here.”