Mount Vernon council accepts resignation of Raymond P. Botch Jr.; Emergency Operations Center to bear his name

Mayor John Lewis read a resignation letter from Council Member Raymond P. Botch Jr. announcing his resignation effective June 1, 2025. In the letter, Botch said it had been an honor to serve; Mayor Lewis and councilmembers expressed appreciation for Botch’s years of service as a former city manager and volunteer, noting his work on the Public Utilities Commission and financial contributions to city programs.

Council Member Donte Moore thanked Botch for his leadership and advice, and Council Member Joe Gliosci said he had been fortunate to serve with Botch and would miss him. The council voted to accept the resignation on a motion by Joe Gliosci, seconded by Donte Moore. The mayor noted the city will refer to the Emergency Operations Center as the Raymond P. Botch, Jr. Emergency Operations Center.

The mayor also presented the appointment of Lauren Berry to the Minority Affairs and Human Relations Commission; the council approved the appointment on a motion by Council Member Donte Moore, seconded by Council Member Joe Gliosci. Mayor Lewis asked the public to keep three Fairview Heights officers who were shot over the weekend in their prayers.