State Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) was recently honored by the Illinois Municipal League (IML) with its Municipal Visionary Award, recognizing his leadership in protecting municipal authority, preserving local decision-making, and advancing policies that strengthen local governments.
DeWitte received the award during the IML’s Annual Conference in Chicago, which brought together more than 2,000 municipal officials and staff members from communities throughout Illinois. The conference provides municipal leaders with an opportunity to share ideas, discuss challenges facing their communities, and advocate for policies that support local government.
As a former mayor of St. Charles, DeWitte has maintained a strong focus on municipal issues throughout his eight years in the Illinois Senate. He has worked closely with mayors, village presidents, municipal administrators, and local officials across Kane and McHenry counties and throughout the state.
“Having served as Mayor of St. Charles before joining the Illinois Senate, I have always understood and valued the critical role our local governments play in serving residents and strengthening our communities,” said DeWitte. “That experience has remained an important part of how I approach my work in Springfield, particularly when legislation has the potential to affect the ability of municipalities to make decisions that are best for their communities.”
According to IML Chief Executive Officer Brad Cole, DeWitte’s work on legislation addressing local housing policy was an important factor in his selection for the award.
“The Municipal Visionary Award recognizes legislators who demonstrate exceptional leadership in protecting municipal authority, preserving local decision-making and advancing policies that strengthen local government,” said Cole. “As Senate sponsor of IML’s Reducing Expenses and Advancing Local (REAL) Housing Act proposal, Senator DeWitte played a key role in advancing legislation that preserves local decision-making and worked to develop solutions that strengthen municipalities.”
DeWitte said receiving the recognition as he prepares to complete his final term in the Illinois Senate made the award particularly meaningful.
“As I complete my final term in the Senate, this recognition is especially meaningful to me,” DeWitte said. “My time in public service has given me the opportunity to work alongside countless dedicated municipal leaders, and I am grateful for the relationships we have built and the work we have accomplished together.”
DeWitte continued, “Serving the residents of Kane and McHenry counties in the Illinois Senate has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I remain committed to advocating for our communities and making sure the voices of local leaders and residents are heard in Springfield. Our municipalities are closest to the people they serve, and preserving their ability to make decisions locally is essential to building strong, vibrant communities across Illinois.”