Meet Gary Kovanda: Talcott Library Board candidate

Seven candidates are vying for a seat on the Talcott Free Library Board in the April 1 election: Loren Floto, Neala Jensen, Nadine Kelley, Gary Kovanda, Mary-Katherine Lindt, Hilaree Lombardo, and Alicia Ragaller. Five candidates are running for a four year term, and two, for a two year term.

Gary Kovanda

Gary Kovanda has been a member of the Talcott Free Library Board for many years and would like to continue serving the community in that capacity. Kovanda is running for reelection to a four year term.

“At present, our board thoughtfully addresses the various issues that come before it. My vision is that we continue to strive to operate in the best interests of the public we serve.”

Kovanda has also served on the Village of Rockton Zoning Board of Appeals for many years. He is currently serving as its chairman.

“I was first elected to the library board in 2009, and this year I will complete my fourth term. Presently, I am the president, and previously I have held the positions of secretary and treasurer.”

For several years, Kovanda delivered Thanksgiving food baskets for the Rockton Food Pantry and also helped with the weekend backpack program on Fridays. Kovanda was a den leader in his son's Cub Scout pack and later was an assistant Scoutmaster in his Boy Scout troop. "For the past seven years, I have been a member of the Deacons Outreach Board of the United Church of Beloit."

Kovanda retired after a 30-year career as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office. “I spent most of that time in the Civil Division representing Winnebago County, its officials, and the County Board, which provided me with a wealth of knowledge and experience in local governmental law, including valuable insight into running efficient and effective board meetings. I can also assist the board in understanding legal issues when they arise,” Kovanda said. He remains licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

Kovanda has been married to his wife Jeanne for 45 years. They are 35 year residents of Rockton, with three adult children and a two-year-old grandchild.

“I am running again because I want to continue supporting and guiding the Talcott Free Library to ensure that it remains one of the best libraries in Northern Illinois,” Kovanda said.