2 Elmhurst Aldermen Resign

ELMHURST, IL — Elmhurst's mayor this week announced the resignations of two of the city's 14 aldermen. Ward 4 Alderman Kevin York resigned last Thursday, while Ward 1 Alderman Mark Sabatino plans to vacate his position this Thursday.

Mayor Steve Morley revealed the resignations at the City Council's regular meeting Monday, in which most members were connected remotely because of the pandemic. It was four days after York had left his position, and Morley said he believed most, if not all, aldermen knew about it.

"I know it wasn't a bad situation. It was a personal situation where he took necessary steps he needed to take and he is no longer an Elmhurst city alderman," Morley told the council.

Later in the meeting, Morley informed the council that Sabatino would resign in three days, saying the alderman was changing jobs.

Sabatino, who was taking part in the meeting remotely, said he was moving for work in Nashville. He said it was not the way he planned to leave the council.

"I'm broadcasting from my parents' house, where I've been living for nearly a week now, spending some quality time with them, which includes watching reruns of 'Seinfeld' and 'Everybody Loves Raymond.'"

He said his life had become a cross between George Constanza and Ray Barone, characters from the shows.

"On top of that, my brother lives with my parents, too," he said, referring to "Everybody Loves Raymond." "Maybe that's an Italian thing."

Sabatino said it was a big decision to leave his family and friends and that his emotions were mixed, saying he had the "utmost respect" for his city colleagues.

He also praised the mayor for his leadership and friendship. But he joked, "What I won't thank him for is his matchmaking abilities," without providing an explanation.

Morley promised a "proper sendoff" for both aldermen. A later city news release said both men were leaving for "positive personal reasons."

York's Ward 4 consists of neighborhoods in the city's east central part of town and includes Sandburg Middle School. Sabatino's Ward 1 is to the west and includes York High School and Elmhurst College. Each ward is represented by two aldermen.

York's term was set to expire in 2021 and Sabatino's in 2023.

The mayor has the power to nominate the aldermen's replacements, with the council's approval. More information on the application process is on the city's website.