2022/08/24 - Walter's Blog: Council Member Memorial

Great communities require great leaders, and O’Fallon is no exception. Over the past four months, I have had the misfortune of saying goodbye to four great leaders who served with distinction on the O’Fallon City Council. 

Kevin Hagarty died suddenly on March 30 and served on the City Council from 2011 until his death. He chaired the Public Safety Committee and was the second most senior member on the City Council. I remember Kevin as an engaged elected official who led by example and was a champion for O’Fallon. He also was a sports fan who was involved in numerous community organizations. 

Dan Witt died tragically on June 12 and served on the City Council from 2017 until his death. He chaired the Public Works Committee. I remember Dan as a strong advocate for the residents in his ward yet also worked for the betterment of the community. Dan was also a longtime leader in the O’Fallon Booster Club, which enriched the lives of countless children over many years. 

Allen Medford died on July 21 and served on the City Council from 1997-2010. He chaired the Public Works Committee and was a long-time member of the Community Development Committee. I remember Allen’s strong advocacy for high development standards: he wanted O’Fallon to be distinctive and he played a major role in the quality development on Green Mount Road and Central Park Drive. 

Ray Holden died on July 25 and served on the City Council from 2013-2021. He chaired the Parks and Environment Committee and was instrumental in many of the City’s recent park improvements. Ray was one of the first community leaders I met when I began this job in 2002, and he was involved in just about everything: City Council, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and the Scott AFB Heritage Air Park to name a few. 

We were fortunate for their service to our community, and O’Fallon’s superior quality of life is due in part to their efforts. I am grateful to have known them.