The Village of Homer will hold a special meeting tonight to accept the resignation of Mayor Jeremy Richards and appoint a new mayor.
According to the Village of Homer’s Facebook page, Jim White will become mayor until April when the position will be on the ballot for a partial two-year term.
Homer residents responding to the special meeting announcement on Facebook were supportive of the work Richards had done as mayor.
Recently, the Village had come under scrutiny for electing to continue to have the Village police car cleaned in Champaign instead of the new car wash located in Homer.
“My physical and mental health are more important to me and my family than being the mayor of the town I love,” Richards wrote.
“I will continue to serve this village by being a volunteer (firefighter) and helping in any way the village needs me.
“I would like to thank the village board of trustees, it has been an honor to serve with all of you and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
“I would like to say a special thank you to Sharon for being such a wonderful person to work with.
“Lastly, per any rumors that I’ve heard going around that my decision has ANYTHING to do with Mr. Don Happ, I can categorically deny any (of) those. I have nothing but the (utmost) respect for Mr. Happ and consider him a close, personal friend.”
Happ owns Happ-y Daze Shine car wash in Homer.
Richards was elected as Village President in 2021.
The Agenda for said special meeting is as follows:
1. Call to order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Public Comment
4. Read resignation of Mayoral Position
5. Approve nomination of new Mayor
6. Swear in new Mayor
7. Adjourn
