West Cook News

Corruption has become a central issue as Lyons Mayor Chris Getty seeks a fourth term while fending off allegations of criminal wrongdoing.

Nearly 18-months have passed since federal agents raided Lyons Village Hall as part of a widening corruption probe that to date has cost Getty nearly $100,000 in legal fees he’s paid off through campaign funds.   

Getty, whose father once served as mayor before being sentenced to federal jail time for stealing from the village, has known controversy for much of his tenure, including claims of patronage hiring and awarding government business to campaign contributors.

All the scandal has been enough to spur Richard Gatz Jr. back to action. A village board member nearly 20-years ago, Gatz has launched his campaign against Getty and if elected has already vowed to fight to eliminate scheduled pay raises and reimpose term limits.

“I’ve heard from a lot of residents that they are tired of it,” Gatz said. “They want a change and, honestly, I think we can make a change that’s needed.”