The former chief operations officer for Thoms-Proestler Co., Michael Thoms, has announced his candidacy for mayor of Rock Island.
Thoms made his announcement at a media briefing Tuesday at The Establishment in downtown Rock Island. A life-long Rock Island resident, Thoms said his experience in the private sector will help him improve the city.
"I've devoted the past 25 years to do my part to strengthen and improve Rock Island and the Quad-Cities," Thoms said. "I've listened to friends, neighbors, business owners and residents talk about their love for our community and what can be done to make it better. I love Rock Island and want to help take it to new levels."
Thoms said he wants to build on the city's historic strengths, vibrant downtown, great parks and library, friendly neighborhoods, cultural life and strong business core.
"I plan to continue the tradition of progressive, innovative, non-partisan government," he said. "I promise to open the lines of communication between the city and its citizens."
Thoms is a graduate of Rock Island High School and attended Black Hawk College. Other career highlights Thoms cited include:
- President/CEO of Renaissance Rock Island
- Served on RiverVision committee, Sunset Marina Boater's Advisory committee, stormwater appeals board, Water Resource Advisory Committee and the police chief selection advisory committee.
- Chaired successful $12.8 million Rock Island-Milan School District bond referendum effort and facilities review.
- Board chair of DARI, Family Museum, Niabi Zoological Society, Trinity Health Foundation and Two Rivers YMCA.
- Board member of Bethany for Children & Families, Blackhawk College Foundation, HavLife, Junior Achievement, Illinois Quad-Cities Chamber of Commerce, Putnam Museum and U.S. Bank Advisory board.
- 2006 Citizen of the Year (professional) in Rock Island.
Thoms is married to his wife, Sara and has three children and seven grandchildren.