Kane board vet won't seek re-election

GENEVA -- One of the Kane County Board's longest-serving members has pulled his hat out of the ring for February's primary election.

Republican Rob McConnaughay of Geneva has withdrawn his name from the ballot in County Board District 11, which encompasses the city itself.

Although he did not have plans for another term -- and said so before his last re-election bid -- McConnaughay filed election petitions for the Feb. 2 GOP primary when it looked like no one else would.

Filing closed this week, and when Mike Donahue also filed for the Geneva board seat, McConnaughay decided to withdraw.

"I didn't know he was running," McConnaughay said.

Donahue now stands as the lone candidate from either party in District 11. Of the 13 board seats up for election next year, at least three will go to newcomers with the incumbents McConnaughay, Arlene Shoemaker and John Mayer not seeking another term.

McConnaughay first was elected in 1990 and currently leads the board's Finance Committee. With another year to serve, he remains concerned about county finances.

"I'm still very worried about the budget," he said, comparing the county's current problems to the early 1990s. "This is definitely a worse (financial) experience."

A lifelong Genevan, McConnaughay describes his service as "rewarding" and figured that 20 years "was enough." He lists the fight against landfill expansion and bringing money to his hometown as highlights.

McConnaughay said Donahue will bring a calm demeanor to the board.

Donahue is no stranger to public service, touting 20 years in that realm, including six as Geneva's development director.

"I know Mike very well; he's a very good man," McConnaughay said.