La Grange Trustee Won't Run Again, Gives Notice Months Ahead Of Time

LA GRANGE, IL – Incumbents sometimes wait until the last minute to reveal they're not running again, clearing the field for favored insiders.

La Grange Trustee Beth Augustine is avoiding that route.

At Monday's Village Board meeting, Augustine, who has served since 2019, said she would not seek a third term.

La Grange Trustee Beth Augustine greets residents before a Village Board meeting in 2023. (David Giuliani/Patch)

The candidate filing period is in December.

Augustine said she wanted to give prospective candidates enough time to prepare. Having one less incumbent to challenge, she said, can be a motivator for candidates.

As for incumbents waiting until the 11th hour, Augustine said, "I pass no judgment on that practice, but it is not for me."

She said she would only run if no one else did.

"I'd rather serve again than see someone appointed, but I have no doubt there would be many residents out there interested and willing to serve," Augustine said.

She also recommended prospective candidates "get their ducks in a row" by taking part in the Citizens Council of La Grange. The group is often the springboard for candidates in local elections.

Last year, U.S. Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, a Democrat who represents much of La Grange, announced his departure just before the filing deadline.

His chief of staff, Patty Garcia, was the only one who got an early heads-up. So she gathered enough petition signatures in time, allowing her to run unopposed in the Democratic primary.

Many have criticized Garcia for his late announcement. The House reprimanded him.