Bettye Gavin Named to Joliet City Council

Despite several members voicing concerns about the selection process, the Joliet City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved Mayor Tom Giarrante's pick to replace ailing District 4 representative Susie Barber.

Giarrante's choice, Forest Park Community Center Executive Director Bettye Gavin, received praise from council members for her community involvement.

"Bettye, you're a natural fit," at large councilman Jim McFarland said.

District 1 Councilman Larry Hug voted yes, noting that he had called for public input sessions to help choose Barber's replacement. 

"That didn't come to materialize, but I know Bettye," Hug said, voting yes.

District 2 Councilman Bob O'Dekirk, who is running against Giarrante in 2015 , said he received a number of phone calls Tuesday "from people who were concerned or alarmed about [the selection process]."

Even so, O'Dekirk voted yes. "I think Bettye's a good choice," he said.

District 5 Councilman Terry Morris said while he had questions about the process Giarrante used to select Gavin, he was also voting yes.

"I have no problem with Bettye," he said, adding that for Giarrante, "I know it was a hard decision."

District 3's John Gerl said Gavin will be a "tremendous advocate for the residents of District 4," while at large councilwoman Jan Quillman said she was "pleasantly surprised" by Giarrante's pick.

At large council member Mike Turk said he looks forward to working with Gavin, who addressed the board following Tuesday night's vote.

"I take this position very seriously," Gavin said. "We have much to do for a better Joliet and I look forward to the challenge."

Gavin also spoke directly to her constituents in District 4, located on Joliet's east side.

She pledged to work together with residents to bring about change in the district. "I will work shoulder to shoulder with my partners and with residents in this community," Gavin said. "I am ready for the challenge and I am ready for the ride ... I am excited about our future."

Giarrante said he received eight applications for the District 4 seat.

"I interviewed them all," with the exception of one candidate, who did not submit an application until late Monday afternoon, the mayor said. 

"I called her and told her it's too late," Giarrante said of the last-minute applicant. 

Gavin will be sworn in at the council's May meeting.

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