Rick Chapman Won't Run For Shorewood Mayor In April

SHOREWOOD, IL — On Tuesday, Shorewood's longtime Mayor Rick Chapman made it official, he will not be seeking another four-year term as mayor when his position is up in April. Chapman posted a lengthy statement on Facebook reflecting on his 20 years of office. He also announced that he plans to run for a village board trustee instead.

"This decision did not come easy because the Village of Shorewood has, and will always be embedded deep within me," Chapman notified Shorewood residents. "I appreciate your support over the past 20 years and want to thank you for keeping me in a position to serve you.

"That being said, I still want to serve you and stay involved in where Shorewood will go in the future. I also want to make sure that our 'home rule' status is never abused by future Village Boards. That is why I have decided to run for Village Trustee. I served in this position for my first 8 years on the Village Board, chairing Planning and Zoning, Citizens Advisory, Finance, Cable TV, Village Hall Expansion committees under Mayor Hofer. My experience and qualifications speak for themselves."

Three days ago, Chapman posted a rant on his Facebook page that read in part: "Now I am truly angry. I don't care what your politics are, that's your business. The last few nights I have been out getting signatures to run for the Village Board and have met many people.

"At least three elderly couples told me that they were afraid to display signs for any candidate. Their fear was based on their belief that their property could be damaged by people with opposing views. Apparently this is what we have degraded to.

"I have spent 28 years in service to this Village and this is the first time I have heard this. Fear to voice or show your opinion. Fear for your safety! Fear for your property! Because you might not agree with someone else. I want Shorewood to be a place where we all feel safe. Please respect each other, and don't impose your will on other people by making them fearful. If you are caught doing so, we in Shorewood will make certain you are held accountable. God bless you all during these trying times."