Chris Koos announces candidacy for sixth term as mayor of Normal

Chris Koos, mayor of the city of Normal since 2003, is seeking another four-year term.

Koos said Monday he plans to run for his sixth four-year term in the consolidated election in April 2025. He was appointed in 2003 to fill the remainder of Kent Karraker’s term.

“My core belief is that you don’t just live in great communities, you work to create great communities,” Koos said in a press release. “In collaboration with my council colleagues, a dedicated city staff and community stakeholders, we have worked to make Normal the unique and wonderful place it is today.”

He believes that he can use his experience for the good of the city better than ever.

“I believe I have a lot to offer the community because of my many years of working with partners at the federal and state levels,” Koos said.

In his last races, Koos narrowly defeated Marc Tiritilli in 2017, and in a rematch in 2021, Koos won in a head-to-head race with about 52% of the vote. Previous opponents included Jeff Fritzen, Andrew Mathews and Gary Oehler.

“Together we can achieve even more. I am the right choice for Normal and have the experience and passion needed to continue leading Normal.”

Koos said he wants to continue improving the city’s quality of life and the strength of its economy.

“But the idea that we would have a more diverse economy and more diverse job opportunities was very important to me from day one when I took this job, and we got it done,” Koos said.

Koos owns and operates Vitesse Cycle Shop and Often Running in Normal. He also serves on the Amtrak board. He is vice president of the Illinois Municipal League and vice chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ transportation committee. That’s a lot. Koos just celebrated his 76th birthday. The mayor said age is not an issue right now.

“For me, it’s about self-realization and self-confidence. You have to be really honest with yourself. Do you still have the energy and health to do that at your age? And my answer today is: Yes, I do,” said Koos.

Koos is also a Vietnam veteran, which he called a “life-changing experience” that shaped his tenure as mayor. He took a brief sabbatical from office in 2018 after being diagnosed with prostate cancer.

No other candidate has announced their intention to run for the seat.

Candidates for the spring 2025 election may submit nomination petitions beginning August 20. Candidates may submit these petitions from November 12 to 18.

WGLT will update this story.