Election petitions filed for nonexistent jobs to be decided on by the Town of Normal

Posted on November 29, 2022
A McLean County judge in September invalidated the referendum, siding with Normal’s claims that it is an incorporated town not subject to a ballot question. (WJBC File Photo)

By 25 News

NORMAL – The final day to file nominating petitions for next spring’s municipal election took an unexpected turn in Normal on Monday.

Two people filed petitions to become candidates for jobs that don’t exist, while a third person wants to become Normal’s town clerk, which is an appointed position.

The filings are the result of last fall’s dispute over a referendum to decide if Normal should be divided into districts rather than the current form of at-large town council representation.

A McLean County judge in September invalidated the referendum, siding with Normal’s claims that it is an incorporated town not subject to a ballot question.

Residents who lost that court battle believe that since the court declared Normal an incorporated community, it must hold elections for a supervisor, town collector, and town clerk.

According to our News Partner 25 News, On Monday, Robert Shoraga filed to become the elected supervisor, and Charles Sila filed to become the elected town collector. Neither position exists in Normal, while Amy Conklin filed petitions to become the elected town clerk. The current clerk, Angie Huonker, was appointed to her job.

Town staffers said they’re dealing with an unprecedented situation, and they’re seeking advice from an outside counsel about what to do with the petitions.

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