Huntley Board of Trustees bids farewell to three of its members as new trustees are sworn in
HUNTLEY — The May 11 Village Board meeting would be the last for former Trustees Curt Kittle, Niko Kanakaris, and Harry Leopold as all three members had decided not to run for positions on the board again after their terms came to an end.
The evening events included allowing the remaining current board members to say a few words to the departing trustees.
Trustee Ronda Goldman was the first to give her gratitude to the three former board members, which included highlighting how Leopold mentored her 10 years ago, an appreciation for Kittle’s detailed observations and due diligence, as well as complementing Kanakaris’ extensive knowledge of buildings.
Trustee JR Westberg shared his amazement at Kittle’s growth as a trustee in his two-year term, also stating that he hoped Kittle would consider running for the board again if that opportunity opens for him in the future.
“Niko is always good for a laugh. His sarcasm and your jokes will be missed, but all jokes aside, you took this very [seriously]. Wider parking stalls and deeper garages that you continuously pushed for. You have a vision for Huntley. I think you’re going to see the benefits of that in the future and for many years beyond us,” said Westberg. “Harry, 20 years, buddy…you’re kind, you’re cordial, [and] a plethora of knowledge. You’re going to leave a legacy behind.”
As a newer member of the board, Trustee Mary Holzkopf, who has only served since 2021, stated that she appreciated what Kanakaris has taught her in her two years in service. She added that she was saddened Kittle didn’t choose to run again seeing as they were the “newbies” together, but was grateful for his hard work nonetheless.
In terms of Leopold, Holzkopf said, “What I have experienced being on the board with you is nothing but sheer kindness. You do your research. You represent our village so very well and it really has been an honor and a privilege to sit with you.”
Mayor Tim Hoeft then proceeded to talk about the memories he shared with all three individuals during their time on the board. Following Hoeft’s appreciation for the former trustees, Huntley Village Manager Dave Johnson took the time to thank the three men on behalf of village staff.
Before Kittle, Kanakaris, and Leopold said their farewells, Hoeft announced that they would each be receiving an award plaque in recognition of their time on the board.
“I’m clearly the rookie up here, but hopefully through the two years, I’ve brought some value. I’ve made some great friendships. It was an honor to serve with fellow trustees, the mayor, and the staff. Staff made it incredibly easy to get things done, stay organized, and be on top of it,” said Kittle.
Kanakaris also echoed Kittle’s gratitude to his fellow trustees and village staff.
“Sad day to be the last day up here. I really enjoyed this ride and I want to thank all the residents for believing in me and voting me in for the four terms,” stated Kanakaris.
Having served on the board for 20 years, Leopold, according to Hoeft, also holds the distinction of being the first Sun City resident to be elected as a trustee.
In addition, Hoeft mentioned that he would miss Leopold’s enthusiasm for playing a round of golf regardless of the weather, which tied into the presentation of Leopold’s plaque that was specially made in the shape of a golf club.
Like Kittle and Kanakaris, Leopold also gave his gratitude for the time he spent on the board.
As a final surprise to Leopold and retiring Village Clerk Rita McMahon, village staff revealed that two streets in the Pod 9 real estate portion of the Talamore Subdivision would be named Leopold Lane and McMahon Way in their honor.
Towards the conclusion of the May 11 Village Board meeting, Vito Benigno, John Piwko, and Ric Zydorowicz, were officially sworn in as the three new trustees.
