Mokena's Outgoing Mayor Bids Farewell

The Monday Village Boad meeting was anything but typical. It marked the end of former Mayor Joe Werner's career as top municipal leader. With the re-election of all incumbent trustees—John Mazzarana, Joseph Siwinski and George Metanias along with Clerk Patricia Patt—elected officials formally took their seats. 

While the newly-elected Mayor Frank Fleischer took an oath to uphold the standards of his leadership role, the evening was really all about former Mayor Joe Werner. Werner dropped out of the race in January. It would have been his third term.

Despite a hotly contested and bitter race that sparked the ire of candidates on both sides, Werner left office on a positive note. He expressed his appreciation for the board members and staff. Werner said he has a lot of "thank you's" to make. He first credited his wife and children for their support. Next he told the village employees and the staff that their support is invaluable. "You need that support," he said.

In a Chicago Tribune report, Werner said, "You turn adversity into opportunity."

There was no shortage of Werner accolades offered by village staff, including Village Administrator John Downs and board members.

For farewell comments offered Werner at his final meeting as leader of the village of Mokena, read the Chicago Tribune.

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