Herbert Brooks, Democrat, chosen as County Board Speaker

 Today, the 26 newly elected members of the Will County Board were sworn in to begin their official duties. Herbert Brooks, D-Joliet, was chosen as County Board Speaker.

 Will County Executive Larry Walsh was also sworn in for his third four-year term as chief executive officer for the county. Walsh said he is eager to begin working with the new county board to keep Will County moving forward.

 “Will County is well positioned to continue the great work that has been done in so many areas,” said Walsh. “I am looking forward to working with all the board members to keep our momentum going.”

 After some discussion on what roles and titles the leadership of the county board would have, the board members agreed on County Board Speaker, Democratic Caucus Leader, and Republican Caucus Leader. In addition to Brooks, Diane Seiler-Zigrossi, D-Lockport, will serve as the Democratic Caucus Leader and Jim Moustis, R-Frankfort, was selected as the Republican Caucus Leader.  These new positions are a result of the make-up of the county board being split evenly, 13-13, between Republicans and Democrats. In the event of a tie vote, Walsh will have the tie-breaking vote.

 During the meeting, Brooks said he is more concerned with getting the business of the county accomplished than being deterred by titles.

 “I don’t care about titles,” said Brooks, who also serves as a pastor of a local church. “At the end of the day, it is our role to work with every elected official, department head, and resident who calls Will County home. I like the word ‘our’ because it is more inclusive of everyone in the county.”