East Central Reporter

In May 2024, an article was published regarding Owen Costanza, the former Village of Poplar Grove President, who continued to use the title of Village President and displayed mayoral license plates on his private vehicle. This action was in violation of the Illinois Vehicle Code.

A complaint was lodged with the Secretary of State Police. Within approximately 35 days, corrective measures were implemented. According to a synopsis of the investigation and subsequent actions by the Secretary of State: "IL SOS Police Investigator called today with the disposition of the investigation on Owen. He was disappointed. He told me that Owen has been renewing his mayor plates locally, in person, and that DMV was not following policy because they did not require him to submit a statement that he is still the mayor/president. Owen has ordered new plates and should be meeting with the SOS Police tomorrow to turn in his mayor plates."

As a consequence of this incident involving Costanza, a new policy has been established by the Secretary of State's office. It now mandates that applications for mayoral license plates must be made in person at their Springfield office. Additionally, renewal of these plates requires personal visits to Springfield along with documentation proving one holds such a position.

This change comes as a result of Costanza's inability to accept his electoral defeat, impacting future mayors or village presidents who wish to obtain or renew mayoral license plates.