Elmhurst Alderman Returns After Absences

ELMHURST, IL — On Monday, Elmhurst Alderman Norman Leader took part in a City Council meeting for the first time in more than two months. He last attended March 2.

Like other members, Leader participated in Monday's council meeting remotely because of the pandemic.

Earlier this month, Elmhurst Patch published a story about Leader's absences. He did not return a message for that story, but city spokeswoman Kassonadra Schref said the alderman had been "putting his health first and has not been leaving his residency due to the virus."

"He remains committed to the City of Elmhurst and in serving as the 2nd Ward Alderman. He is actively engaged with City Council and City Staff. However, he has not been able to connect virtually to public meetings due to technical issues," Schref said in an email. "Alderman Leader has served the Elmhurst community for over 15 years and has had an exemplary attendance record for meetings and public events. He appreciates the concern for his well-being and wants to assure the community that he is committed in his service. He is eager to attend the public meetings, but is following the recommendation of healthcare professionals."

Because of the pandemic, council members can connect to meetings remotely, so they can still take part in meetings without increasing their chances of getting the coronavirus.

Leader represents Ward 2, which is on the northwest side of town. His ward includes Berens Park and Emerson School. His fellow Ward 2 alderman is Bob Dunn.

Two weeks ago, Mayor Steve Morley announced the resignations of two council members, Ward 1's Mark Sabatino and Ward 4's Kevin York.