Members of the Will County Board today lauded Will County Executive Larry Walsh Sr. for many decades of public service. Walsh announced that he will not seek re-election at a press conference following Thursday’s Will County Board Meeting.
“I’ve been proud to serve with Larry for these many years. He has been a shining example of a public servant,” said Will County Board Speaker Denise Winfrey (D-Joliet). “Not only has he dedicated so much of his time to serving the people of Will County, but he has always listened to his constituents and put their needs above anything else. Larry has always stood by his constituents.”
“I’ve enjoyed every moment of my time here and I’ve learned that while we may disagree, you don’t have to be disagreeable,” said Walsh. “I’ve always tried to reach across the aisle. We have accomplished a great deal for our taxpayers.”
Born in Joliet, Walsh has been a lifelong resident of Will County. He served on the Jackson Township Board as well as the Elwood School Board. Walsh was elected to the Illinois General Assembly as a Senator, serving from 1997 to 2005. He was elected County Executive in 2004.
“Being a public servant is hard work and Larry knows that as well as anyone,” said Will County Board Member and Republican Caucus Leader Mike Fricilone (R-Homer Glen). “It was a pleasure working with him and although we have philosophical differences, we always managed to find common ground and get the work of the people accomplished.”