-
Past and Current Elected Officials
-
Village President Mike Moran
-
Village Trustee Jennifer Wondrasek
-
Village Trustee Todd Sholeen
-
Village Trustee Lauren Klauer
-
Village Clerk Jim Dillon
At the May 12 Village Board meeting, the Village of Barrington marked a momentous occasion, swearing in new leadership while paying tribute to long-serving officials whose contributions have shaped the community for decades.
The evening was both a celebration of new beginnings and a heartfelt farewell. After an extraordinary 30-year career in public service, Village President Karen Darch has retired, closing a distinguished chapter in Barrington’s history. Her leadership journey began in 1995 as a Village Trustee, followed by her election as Village President in 2005. Darch was re-elected four times, serving the community with enduring dedication, vision and integrity.
During her three decades of service, Darch was a part of numerous transformative projects, including the creation of the Barrington’s White House as a cultural and community hub, redevelopment of the Village Center, Village Hall and the Public Safety facility, and the development of major commercial and residential areas such as the Shops at Flint Creek, Cook Street Plaza and the Golden Triangle. Her tenure also saw Barrington’s establishment as a Home Rule community and the launch of the U.S. Route 14 underpass project, along with many other vital infrastructure improvements.
Beyond her local leadership, Darch was an influential voice regionally and statewide. She served as President of the Illinois Municipal League (IML) and held leadership positions on numerous transportation and local government boards. Her commitment to Barrington extended well beyond her official duties, as she actively volunteered with local organizations and became a trusted and admired presence throughout the community.
“Serving as a Village Trustee first and then as your Village President for the past 20 years has been an extraordinary privilege,” said Darch. “I am profoundly thankful for the trust you have placed in me and for the opportunity to work alongside and for so many passionate, talented individuals who care deeply about Barrington. Though my role may be changing, my love for this Village remains as strong as ever. I’m excited for the next chapter—for myself, for you, and for the incredible community we all call home.”
The Village also bid farewell to Village Clerk Tony Ciganek, who retired after serving since 2017. Ciganek brought rigor and professionalism to the role of official record keeper. With a background in physics, business, and a distinguished career at Baxter Healthcare, he earned widespread admiration for his diligence and integrity.
As Barrington said goodbye to two longtime leaders, it simultaneously welcomed a new group of public servants. Mike Moran was sworn in as the new Village President, bringing with him over two decades of residency and a proven track record in both business and civic leadership. Moran, President and owner of Moran Transportation Corporation, was appointed Village Trustee in 2019 and re-elected in 2021, and is known for his collaborative leadership style and strategic mindset. His work leading the Fox Point Homeowners Association, including major capital improvement efforts, underscores his hands-on approach to community building.
Joining Moran in leadership, Jim Dillon returned as Village Clerk, a role he previously held in 2008 before a professional assignment in Germany. With extensive experience in automotive systems and engineering, Dillon brings valuable technical and organizational expertise to the Village’s administrative team.
The Village also celebrated the continued service of Trustees Todd Sholeen and Jennifer Wondrasek, who were re-elected for new terms. Both have made significant contributions through their leadership on key initiatives and active community involvement. New to the Board is Trustee Lauren Klauer, a lifelong Barrington resident whose dedication to local organizations, including Barrington Children’s Charities and the Barrington Civic Leaders group, adds a fresh perspective and passion to the team.
As the Village transitions into this new era, it remains grounded in the principles that have long defined its governance: integrity, service and collaboration. With President Moran now leading the Board that includes Trustees Jason Lohmeyer, Todd Sholeen, Jennifer Wondrasek, Kate Duncan, Brian Prigge and Lauren Klauer, alongside Village Clerk Jim Dillon, Barrington is well-positioned to build upon the achievements of recent decades.
“Throughout President Darch’s remarkable tenure, she has been a true champion for Barrington,” said President Moran. “Under her leadership, the Village has undertaken critical infrastructure and redevelopment projects that have not only preserved our unique small-town character but also strengthened the sense of community that defines who we are. I look forward to building on her legacy, continuing infrastructure improvements, and exploring new opportunities to foster investment in our town.”
As Barrington looks to the future, it does so with gratitude for the remarkable service of Karen Darch and Tony Ciganek. Their legacies of leadership, vision and dedication will continue to inspire the community for generations to come.