KANKAKEE, Ill. (AP) — An Illinois county has approved a memorial honoring three former governors from Kankakee, including convicted ex-Gov. George Ryan.
The Daily Journal reports the Kankakee County board endorsed it in a 10-to-2 vote last week. It’ll be on the Kankakee courthouse lawn. It’ll also be dedicated to Len Small, governor from 1921 to 1929; and Samuel Shapiro, governor in the late 1960s.
Member Michael LaGesse opposed it, saying he didn’t get one call in favor.
Board member Robert Ellington-Snipes expressed reservations, citing Ryan’s corruption convictions. But he said Ryan also did some “good.” He voted for the plan.
The Woman’s Club of Kankakee led the drive for the memorial in the city about 50 miles south of Chicago. The group hopes to have it completed in October.
