Longtime Trustee Leaves Board

Trustee Paul Mercer has worked behind the scenes to get a full interchange built at Route 47 and Interstate 90 for almost a decade.

His work, along with village staff and the rest of the , came to fruition this week with word that the Illinois Tollway will vote on an intergovernmental agreement next week, which will put the project in full gear.

It’s a bit ironic given Mercer ended his tenure as a trustee Thursday night.

“I don’t think the timing is ironic, I think it’s wonderful,” Mercer said after his last board meeting. “That’s the best thing that can happen.”

From Huntley to Arizona

He and his wife, Judy, are moving to Oro Valley, Ariz., in a few weeks. The Sun City Huntley couple is leaving behind family and cherished friends but plan to make regular visits back here.

Mercer grew up in Chicago and moved to Huntley in 1971 during an earlier marriage. He fit right in, comparing the community then to the neighborhood he grew up in the city. The population was less than 1,000 people and everyone knew each other, Mercer said.

He was appointed to the village plan commission in 1975, then was elected to the board in 1977. Mercer served as a trustee on and off for about 16 years.

Mercer raised his children in Huntley, remarried, moved away for a few years then moved back to his adopted hometown. The Mercers moved into Sun City Huntley in 2000.

Mayor Charles Sass appointed Mercer to the board in 2003.

“He’s been a good trustee who’s been there when we needed to appoint someone,” Sass said.

“I know when I first ran for mayor I asked Paul for advice and wisdom and didn’t get any,” Sass said as the audience and Mercer laughed. “But I’m gonna miss him.”

Sentimental farewell

Thursday’s meeting included a video of Mercer’s life in Huntley and as a trustee. Sass read a proclamation citing his contribution to policy directions that guided the community in growth and development. The proclamation states Mercer “has provided outstanding public service, passion and love for the Huntley community and its residents.”

Among the contributions Mercer is proud of: helping start the Huntley Farmers Market. He said for him, it has helped get people talking to each other.

The board’s farewell was sentimental but funny at times. Sass also gifted Mercer with an autographed photo of himself. Staff gave Mercer a gift card, a Huntley flag and Huntley Farmers Market bag.

Dedicated trustee

Village Clerk Rita McMahon has worked with Mercer since she started with the village 23 years ago.

“He’s done an incredible job,” she said of Mercer. “The village is definitely a better place because he’s been on the board.

“It’s been a really great experience,” Mercer said of his time on the board. He thanked everyone, especially the village staff. “I wish more people would get involved so more people can go through this experience.”