Evans takes oath of office

Courtesy of the Freepress 7/8/2014 Evans takes oath of office Son takes over where mom left off

ALDERMAN STEVE EVANS Pam Monson Editor Helen Hoppe was in the audience at Tuesday's City Council meeting, while her son, Steve Evans, was sworn in to take her seat on the council. Hoppe was re-elected to a four-year term on the council in spring 2013. Due to health concerns, Hoppe has had to relinquish her position as alderman representing the residents of the Fourth Ward, which is on the west side of the Kankakee River. Mayor Marty Orr announced in May that he was looking for an individual interested in taking Hoppe's place. He approached Evans. Evans served as a Florence Township trustee for seven years, and was reluctant to return to the public life. "I thought about it a lot, if I wanted to get back into it," Evans said. Hoppe pledged her support, and he decided to give it a try. He will represent the people of the ward until one can be elected in the April 7, 2015, Consolidated Election. He could also choose to run to keep the office. "That's what I'm there for," he commented. Residents can expect Evans to stand for a clean, well-maintained community; respect and communication between council members; and a dedication to proper procedure. He anticipates working issues out with fellow council members before bringing them to the table for consideration. Evans owns Evans Lawn and Garden, and manages the Davy Industrial Park.