As part of our 30th anniversary, we are reflecting on some of the most memorable moments of the past 30 years. And as we gear up for this year’s election, it’s the perfect time to remember how Naperville’s “number one cheerleader” became the city’s longest-running mayor 22 years ago. George Pradel was elected mayor in 1995 and served five consecutive terms. Once a police officer known to many as “Officer Friendly,” Pradel was known during his tenure for his appearance at just about every public event and his unprecedented enthusiasm. In 2015, he did not seek another re-election and then-councilman Steve Chirico was voted as the next mayor of our city.
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