St. Charles City Council Honors Outgoing Leaders and Welcomes Mayor Laura Scitec

Introduction

The City Council Meeting of St. Charles, Illinois, on May 11, 2021, was a historic and emotional gathering that celebrated decades of service while ushering in a new era of leadership. Outgoing Mayor Ray Rogina, City Administrator Mark Kanan, City Clerk Chuck Amenta, and several long-serving aldermen were honored for their dedication. The meeting also marked the swearing-in of Mayor Laura Scitec, the city’s second female mayor, and the appointment of new city officials.

Meeting Overview

Meeting Details

• Date: May 11, 2021

• Video ID: jwIJb8v4Ah0

• Duration: 1 hour, 5 minutes, 38 seconds

The session began with an invocation from Father David Peck and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a packed agenda focused on leadership recognition, critical appointments, and essential administrative approvals.

Key Highlights and Recognitions

Farewells to Departing Officials

A large portion of the meeting was dedicated to honoring departing leaders:

• City Clerk Chuck Amenta: Recognized for eight years of service, including four as city clerk.

• Alderman Art Lemke: Celebrated for his 16 years of dedication, integrity, and community knowledge.

• Alderman Lucy Gruber: Acknowledged for representing younger residents and bringing fresh perspectives.

• Alderman Maureen Lewis: Honored for a decade of service and her steadfast advocacy for Ward Five residents.

• Alderman Dan Spilato: Praised for over 26 years on the council and six years on the planning commission.

• City Administrator Mark Kanan: Applauded for his 38 years of city service and his leadership as administrator.

• Mayor Ray Rogina: Delivered a heartfelt farewell, emphasizing trust in city staff, collaboration, and the importance of serving with humility.

Transition to New Leadership

The historic evening saw Mayor Laura Scitec officially sworn in. Scitec is now the city’s second female mayor, vowing to inspire women and younger generations to pursue leadership roles. She praised city staff, thanked her family, and emphasized continuing St. Charles’ tradition as a welcoming and vibrant community.

Key Appointments and Decisions

Appointments and Oaths of Office

Several key appointments were approved during the meeting:

• Nancy Garrison as City Clerk (2021–2025)

• John Harrell as City Treasurer (2021–2025)

• Christopher Minnick as Interim City Administrator

• Todd Bancroft as Mayor Pro Tem

• Reappointments of Tracy Conte as Deputy City Clerk, Nicholas Pepper as City Attorney, and prosecuting attorneys for FY 2021–2022

Board and Commission Updates

The council approved the appointment and reappointment of multiple members to city boards and commissions, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership.

COVID-19 State of Emergency Extension

An ordinance was passed to extend the city’s declared COVID-19 state of emergency, allowing St. Charles to remain flexible in addressing ongoing pandemic challenges.

Bank Account Authorization Updates

Resolutions authorized new bank account signers for the city, North Central Narcotics Task Force, and Tri-City Ambulance to reflect the incoming administration.

Police Week Proclamation

Mayor Rogina proclaimed May 9–15, 2021, as Police Week, encouraging residents to show appreciation for local law enforcement and their ongoing service to the community.

Meeting Timeline

Time	Topic
00:01:19	Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance
00:05:28	Recognition of Departing Officials
00:17:31	Mayor Rogina’s Farewell Remarks
00:27:15	City Administrator Kanan’s Farewell
00:45:19	Police Week Proclamation
00:46:14	Appointments of City Clerk & Treasurer
00:50:25	Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
00:52:26	Board & Commission Appointments
00:56:50	COVID-19 State of Emergency Extension
01:02:15	Mayor Laura Scitec’s Inaugural Remarks

Conclusion

The May 11, 2021, City Council meeting in St. Charles symbolized both gratitude and progress. Leaders like Mayor Rogina and Mark Kanan were celebrated for decades of service, while Mayor Laura Scitec’s swearing-in marked a significant moment in the city’s history. The meeting ensured a smooth leadership transition, passed key resolutions, and reinforced St. Charles’ commitment to its residents, safety, and community engagement.

FAQs

Who was sworn in as the new mayor of St. Charles on May 11, 2021?

Laura Scitec was sworn in as St. Charles’ second female mayor during the City Council meeting.

Who was sworn in as the new mayor of St. Charles on May 11, 2021?

Laura Scitec was sworn in as St. Charles’ second female mayor during the City Council meeting.

What key appointments were made during the May 11, 2021, meeting?

Appointments included Nancy Garrison as City Clerk, John Harrell as City Treasurer, Christopher Minnick as Interim City Administrator, and Todd Bancroft as Mayor Pro Tem.

Did the St. Charles City Council extend the COVID-19 state of emergency?

Yes, an ordinance was passed to extend the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency, allowing flexibility in addressing ongoing pandemic challenges.

What special proclamations were made during the meeting?

Mayor Rogina proclaimed May 9–15, 2021, as Police Week to encourage residents to honor local law enforcement.