'We Are Moving Upward': Richard Irvin Announces Bid For 3rd Term As Aurora Mayor

AURORA, IL — Richard Irvin announced Sunday his candidacy for a third term as Aurora's mayor.

Irvin will be up for reelection in the April 1, 2025, consolidated election. He was first elected mayor in 2017, becoming the first Black mayor in the city's history. In 2021, he was reelected, winning the majority of votes in a three-person race.

"I thank all of you for being here today to celebrate this momentous occasion: my announcement for reelection for mayor of the City of Aurora," Irvin said at the event.

During his speech, Irvin shared his administration's top eight achievements:

• Securing the new Hollywood Casino Resort, the largest economic development initiative in Aurora's recent history
• Revitalizing downtown and repurposing vacant buildings
• Decreasing major crime rates
• Elevating educational opportunities across Aurora's six public school districts
• Expanding residential opportunities all over town
• Enhancing the 'One Aurora' focus, creating space for everyone to be involved
• Increasing city staff and streamlining city processes
• Building a forward-thinking City Council

"Aurora grew and continued to ascend these past eight years to heights once unimaginable," Irvin said.

He continued: "What we've done over the eight years has put us on a forward-focused path that must continue into the future. We are moving forward. We are moving onward. We are moving upward. We are on track to truly make Aurora that City of Lights shining bright at the top of the hill."

These achievements have strengthened Aurora's tax base, upgraded Aurora's profile, and put us on a forward-focused path that we need to continue for four more years."