Western Springs' New Leader Takes Reins

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Western Springs Village President Heidi Rudolph, who was appointed Monday, wanted to make a few comments at the end of her first meeting in charge.

She stopped for a moment. Then she wiped away tears. Trustee James John patted her on the back.

Rudolph, who replaced the late Alice Gallagher, thanked her colleagues and village staff for placing their faith in her.

"Serving Western Springs is something I truly love, and I will do everything I can to sustain Alice's deep and genuine commitment to the village of Western Springs, its residents, schools, businesses, churches and parks," she said. "Western Springs is a successful and vibrant community, and I am so proud to be a part of it."

At the beginning of the meeting, the Village Board held a 10-minute closed session to discuss a replacement for Gallagher, who died March 21. The vote for Rudolph was unanimous, with Trustee Al Fink absent.

Rudolph's appointment, though, appeared expected. Her parents, who live in the Bloomington-Normal area, attended the meeting.

Rudolph and James Tyrrell are the longest-serving trustees, having been elected in 2017.

"This is a unique and difficult time," Rudolph said. "I'll do the best I can in this role and do it with all of you."

The board honored Gallagher with a moment of silence.