Lake County Gazette

At the May 12 Village Board meeting, the Village of Barrington marked a momentous occasion, swearing in new leadership while paying tribute to long- serving officials whose contributions have shaped the community for decades.

The evening was both a celebration of new beginnings and a heartfelt farewell. After an extraordinary 30-year career in public service, Village President Karen Darch has retired, closing a distinguished chapter in Barrington’s history. Her leadership journey began in 1995 as a Village Trustee, followed by her election as Village President in 2005. Darch was re-elected four times, serving the community with enduring dedication, vision and integrity.

During her three decades of service, Darch was part of numerous transformative projects, including the creation of the Barrington’s White House as a cultural and community hub, redevelopment of the Village Center, Village Hall and the Public Safety facility, and development of major commercial and residential areas such as the Shops at Flint Creek, Cook Street Plaza and the Golden Triangle. Her tenure also saw Barrington’s establishment as a Home Rule community and the launch of the U.S. Route 14 underpass project along with many other vital infrastructure improvements.

Beyond her local leadership, Darch was an influential voice regionally and statewide. She served as President of the Illinois Municipal League (IML) and held leadership positions on numerous transportation and local government boards. Her commitment to Barrington extended well beyond her official duties; she actively volunteered with local organizations and became a trusted presence throughout the community.

“Serving as a Village Trustee first and then as your Village President for the past 20 years has been an extraordinary privilege,” said Darch. “I am profoundly thankful for the trust you have placed in me and for the opportunity to work alongside so many passionate individuals who care deeply about Barrington. Though my role may be changing, my love for this Village remains as strong as ever. I’m excited for the next chapter—for myself, for you, and for our incredible community. ”

The Village also bid farewell to Village Clerk Tony Ciganek who retired after serving since 2017. Ciganek brought rigor and professionalism to his role as official record keeper. With a background in physics and business from his career at Baxter Healthcare he earned widespread admiration for his diligence.

As Barrington said goodbye to two longtime leaders it simultaneously welcomed new public servants. Mike Moran was sworn in as New Village President bringing over two decades residency with proven business civic leadership track record. Moran is President owner Moran Transportation Corporation appointed Trustee 2019 re-elected 2021 known collaborative strategic mindset leading Fox Point Homeowners Association major capital improvement efforts hands-on approach.

Joining Moran Jim Dillon returned Clerk role previously held before assignment Germany extensive automotive systems engineering experience valuable technical organizational expertise administrative team celebrated continued service Todd Sholeen Jennifer Wondrasek re-elected terms significant contributions key initiatives active involvement New Board Lauren Klauer lifelong resident dedica- tion Children’s Charities Civic Leaders group fresh perspective passion.

As transitions into era remains grounded principles defined governance integri- ty service collaboration President Moran now leading Board includes Trustees Ja- son Lohmeyer Kate Duncan Brian Prigge alongside Clerk Dillon well-positioned bu- ild upon achievements recent decades.

“Throughout President Darch remarkable tenure true champion” said Moran “Under leadership undertaken critical infrastructure redevelopment preserved unique sm- all-town character strengthened sense defines looking forward building legacy co- ntinuing exploring opportunities foster investment town.”

As looks future gratitude remarkable service Karen Tony legacies vision dedica- tion continue inspire generations come.