Crystal Lake City Clerk Retiring from $3,600 Post

Crystal Lake City Clerk Roger Dreher is retiring after two terms.

When I talked to him Monday morning, he told me only one person had filed to replace him in the $3,600 job.

Nick Kachiroubas is the only one who has filed.

Nick made history by being elected to the McHenry County College Board at about as young an age as is possible.

He ran a spirited campaign for re-election, complete with 4 by 8 foot signs. I remember one on the northeast corner of Route 31 and East Crystal Lake Avenue.

I was going to write a story at the time, but failed to do so.

It seems to me that Kachiroubas’ last name contributed to his re-election loss.

I know that people would like to think that things over which candidates have no control shouldn’t affect election outcomes.

But, look at the 2005 election results:

  • Nick Kachiroubas – 10,108
  • George Lowe, Jr. – 12,343
  • Scott Summers – 11,960
  • David Murphy – 11,747

Two were elected—George Lowe and Scott Summers.

The candidates with white bread names all beat Kachiroubas. He placed last.

Even though he had first place ballot position. (The names are listed above in ballot order.)

According to the mimeographed ballot order analysis I read in graduate school at the University of Michigan, if there are 7 or more candidates, first ballot position is worth about 10%. That effect is lower with fewer candidates, but, by no means, could first place be considered a disadvantage.

That candidacy got Mayor Aaron Shepley in some hot water. On March 12, 2005, Shepley’s campaign fund made a $250 contribution to Kachiroubas. Nothing wrong with that in and of itself.

But Shepley’s campaign treasurer has filed a Statement of Nonparticipation. Making a campaign contribution to an active candidate was not considered “nonparticipation” by the State Board of Elections.

It wasn’t a big deal. His committee was fined $100, but that was waived since it was a first offense.

Crystal Lake residents can still file for city council or clerk.

Filing is open through Monday when city hall closes. 33 signatures are required, but I would recommend getting at least twice that many.

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Crystal Lake City Clerk Roger Dreher meets me at the front counter on top. The two winning McHenry County College board members are seen next. From left to right is George Lowe, Jr., and Scott Summers.


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