Morton Grove honors Johnny Mitchell after 50 years with Public Works; trustees approve street-name recognition

Trustees honored Johnny Mitchell for 50 years with the Morton Grove Department of Public Works and approved a resolution authorizing a street sign to commemorate his service.

Mayor Daniel P. DeMaria and multiple trustees praised Mitchell’s long service. According to the mayor’s remarks, Mitchell joined Public Works on June 2, 1975, and rose from maintenance worker in the water and sewer division to superintendent of the streets division. Speakers credited Mitchell with contributions including snow-plowing leadership, leaf pickup and tree operations, development of the curb-to-curb plowing program, and mentoring new workers.

Mayor DeMaria presented a plaque and plant and asked for a motion on Resolution 25-34 to authorize the installation of a temporary street sign in the 9000 block of McVicker Avenue in Morton Grove to honor Mitchell. A motion to approve the resolution was made and seconded, and the clerk recorded the vote as passing 5 to 0. During discussion a trustee asked to change the designation from a temporary to a permanent sign; the change was recorded before the vote.

Mitchell addressed the board, recalling early work with his father and others in the department and thanking colleagues, the police and fire departments, and residents. Trustees noted Mitchell’s role mentoring staff and said his work will leave a lasting legacy across the village.