City of Evanston Announces Mayoral Transition Information

The City is announcing details about the upcoming transition following Mayor Daniel Biss’ resignation. Mayor Biss’ final day in office will be Sunday, October 18, 2026, ending at 11:59 p.m.

The City Council established its Mayor Pro Tem schedule at the beginning of the 82nd City Council. Under the City Council Rules, City Code Section 1-6-9, and the predetermined Mayor Pro Tem schedule, Councilmember Clare Kelly (1st Ward) will serve as Mayor Pro Tem beginning October 19, until an Acting Mayor is chosen or through October 31, 2026.

October 19 Special City Council Meeting

Mayor Biss had called for a Special City Council Meeting at 5 p.m. on Monday, October 19, to consider and vote on appointing an Acting Mayor. Councilmember Kelly has indicated her intention to cancel the October 19 special meeting. Councilmember Kelly has communicated that the Acting Mayor vote will occur at the regularly scheduled council meeting on October 26th.

Mayor Pro Tem Schedule

Following the October 31 transition period, the Mayor Pro Tem schedule previously established by the 82nd City Council will continue:

Councilmember Jonathan Nieuwsma (4th Ward)
November 1, 2026–March 31, 2027

Councilmember Juan Geracaris (9th Ward)
April 1–August 31, 2027

“Serving the people of Evanston as mayor has been a great honor. I am deeply grateful to the residents who placed their trust in me and proud of the progress we have made in the past five years,” said Mayor Daniel Biss. “My family and I are proud to call Evanston home, and I look forward to continuing to fight for our community and the values we share.”

The leadership transition will not disrupt day-to-day municipal operations or City services. All scheduled City Council meetings, programs, and public services will continue as planned.