The Village of Orion’s mayoral race has taken an unexpected turn. Aaron Peer, elected mayor in the last election by a wide margin of support, may not be able to take the oath of office due to a felony conviction from 2001. Peer, who previously served as a sewer trustee for Orion, says he believed he was eligible to serve based on his past experience and the election process. However, Illinois municipal law bars individuals with a felony conviction from taking the oath for public office.
Peer shared that the felony, a possession of a controlled substance charge, occurred when he was 18 years old. Now 43, Peer says he takes full responsibility for the past but hoped voters would judge him based on the life he has built since then, raising four children and working full-time at the Rock Island Arsenal. Peer said he was transparent with voters during the campaign, and many supporters still backed him.
The Village Board is expected to meet on May 5th, the scheduled date for swearing in officials. If Peer cannot take the oath, the board will likely appoint someone to serve a two-year term as mayor. Peer has also initiated legal proceedings, including filing for clemency and attempting to expunge the record, although those outcomes will not be resolved before the May 5th meeting.
Peer says he is disappointed but understands the law as it is written. “It’s frustrating,” he said, “but it’s on me.” Despite the setback, he remains appreciative of the community support he received throughout the election.
You can hear a full interview with Aaron Peer Wednesday morning at 8:30 during Focus on WRMJ and online at wrmj.com.