Longest-Serving Elected Official in St. Charles Has Died

ST. CHARLES, IL - A longtime community leader and former alderman for the St. Charles City Council, who is lauded for maintaining a perfect attendance during his 36-year tenure under four different mayors, has died.

Jim Martin was a lifelong resident of St. Charles and was a fixture on the City Council since he was elected Ward 4 Alderman in 1979. He is also the longest-serving elected official in St. Charles to continually hold office.

"On behalf of the City Council and the entire St. Charles City family, I am sad today to hear of the passing of Jim Martin. Jim served as a faithful public servant for 36 years as a member of the City Council. He never missed a meeting; he loved our community," said St. Charles Mayor Ray Rogina in a statement Thursday. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his widow, Rita, and his entire family."

Flags in St. Charles will be lowered to half staff until Martin's funeral.

Prior to being alderman, Martin was an appointed member of the Zoning Board from 1974-79. Jim also was involved in many other civic endeavors, including the St. Charles Noon Rotary Club, Mental Health Commission, St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, Visit Greater St. Charles, Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau and Downtown St. Charles Partnership.

More information on Martin's funeral arrangements is expected via the Yurs Funeral Home website.

Photo via the city of St. Charles Facebook page