WESTVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — Most people are working towards retirement, hoping to get the chance to relax and focus on starting a new chapter. And that’s exactly what Westville Village President Mike Weese will soon be doing as his career comes to an end.

Weese will be done with his term at the end of the month. He said it’s because of health issues and he think it’s time to allow someone else to take over.

“Two years ago, I had a stroke on my left side and it still bothered me a little bit. I figured I might as well enjoy the rest of my life and and have time to do what I want to do and travel whatever,” Weese said.

After 44 years of working in Westville as a police officer, village council and now the village president, Weese is ready to see the world and spend more time with his family. April 30 will be his last day serving his community as President.

“Yeah, there was a whole bunch of people actually after this election wanting to know why I didn’t want to run one more time,” Treasurer Michael Larson said.

Westville treasurer Michael Larson said he’s worked with Weese all 24 years of his career as president. He said Weese is understanding, available when you need him and easy to talk to.

“This mayor kind of let us look at improving the system. And that was really good,” Larson said.

He said their team was able to complete all sorts of projects, like improving the gas and water system. But for Weese, there was one assignment he touted the most.

“We’ve upgraded our park. I think that’s really a good thing. But the board members, they decided to do a lot of things we came up with,” Weese said.

He said they put nearly $150,000 into the park renovations.

“It’s a lot better for the people to go to the park. We put new equipment in playground equipment for kids to play on. We’ve got a handicap accessible,” Weese said.

As Weese’s final days dwindle down… two others announced they’re soon to follow.

“I am kind of sad. I mean, I enjoyed doing it. I enjoyed working with people. I’d like to hope I help some people,” Weese said. “Course, you’re not going to please everybody.”

The treasurer and village clerk will be leaving this year too. Troy Strebin, the new village president, will be sworn in May 1. The village Treasurer Michael Larson will be leaving April 30 and the Village Clerk Vickie Slavik will be retiring towards the end of May.