Little Doubt In La Grange Transition

LA GRANGE, IL — Ever since La Grange Village President Tom Livingston revealed his plans to resign last month, the selection of his replacement was never really in doubt. For starters, Livingston himself immediately endorsed Kuchler after his announcement.

At Monday's meeting, Livingston, who was elected in 2013, gave a bouquet to his wife, then one to Kuchler's wife, joking that she could keep it even if the trustees picked someone else.

When the vote on the appointment came, Trustee Bill Holder moved for Kuchler to be village president. Then a number of trustees seconded his choice.

"We might note that the entire village board seconded the motion," Holder said.

Kuchler, who is in his fourth term as a trustee, was approved in a voice vote.

"I'll do my best. I hope for your support," said Kuchler, who can serve the rest of Livingston's term, which ends in spring 2021.

Each trustee took time to praise the outgoing president, and Livingston returned the favor.

Livingston said the town has had a long history of good government, as do Western Springs and La Grange Park, among others.

"I'm shocked what I'm reading in the newspaper about other local governments," he said. "We don't have that here... We have sunshine in this village government."

The meeting room was full of Livingston's supporters. Among them was La Grange Park Village President Jim Discipio, who was elected in 2005. He said he liked working with Livingston, particularly in the effort to consolidate 911 dispatchers.

"We've enjoyed great teamwork," Discipio said. "As neighboring towns, we seek to make a positive difference in our communities."

The village president's position is part time. For a full-time job, Livingston is a lobbyist, heading government relations for CSX Transportation, a railroad company. He said he resigned because his job responsibilities recently increased.

Kuchler is a partner in a downtown law firm, specializing in malpractice cases.