Chris Koos announces his candidacy for a 6th term as mayor of Normal

Chris Koos, mayor of the city of Normal since 2003, is seeking an additional four-year term.

Koos said Monday he plans to run for what would be his sixth four-year term in the consolidated elections in April 2025.

“I believe strongly that we not only live in great communities, but we work to create great communities,” Koos said in a news release. “In partnership with my colleagues on council, dedicated city staff and community stakeholders, we have worked to make Normal the unique and wonderful place it is today.”

“We can accomplish more together. I am the right choice for Normal, with the experience and passion to continue leading Normal.”

In his most recent races, Koos narrowly defeated Marc Tiritilli in 2017, and in a rematch in 2021, Koos won with about 52% of the vote in the two-way race.

Koos, owner and operator of Vitesse Cycle Shop and Sometimes Running in Normal, also serves on the Amtrak board of directors. He is vice president of the Illinois Municipal League and vice chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Transportation Committee.

Koos is also a veteran of the Vietnam War, a life-changing experience that influenced his service as mayor. He took a brief leave of absence from office in 2018 after being diagnosed with prostate cancer.

No other candidate has declared their intention to run for the seat.

Candidates for the 2025 spring election can begin circulating nominating petitions starting August 20. Candidates can file these petitions from November 12 to 18.

WGLT will update this story.