Crestwood’s Ward 2 Alderman Michael Balles has recently stepped down from his seat. He resigned on May 20, citing personal health reasons for his departure, and his resignation was recognized by the Board of Aldermen at its May 26 meeting.

Balles has been an alderman in Crestwood since 2022. He was in his second year of a three-year term, which was set to expire in 2028.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve as alderman of Crestwood,” Balles stated in his resignation letter. “I have truly valued working with city administration, fellow aldermen and the residents of Crestwood.”

Mayor Scott Shipley is expected to present a candidate to fill the vacant position left by Balles’ resignation, which will be taken to the board for a vote of approval at its June 23 meeting. Upon approval, that candidate will take Balles’ seat. The appointed alderman will serve until the certification of next year’s election results in the April general municipal election.

On April 6, 2027, voters will have the chance to vote an alderman into that Ward 2 seat to complete the final year of Balles’ three-year term. The Ward 2 seat is slated to be on the ballot again the next year, in 2028, for a new four-year term.

“Mike has served Crestwood with distinction for many years, starting with his service on the Board of Zoning Adjustment,” Shipley said. “He was appointed by Mayor (Jeff) Schlinck, was later appointed by Mayor (Gregg) Roby to serve on the Public Works board, and then obviously became an alderman and served with us here.”

During Ward 3 Alderman Grant Mabie’s report, he commended Balles for being a long-time staple of Crestwood boards, as well as serving on the 2016 and 2021 Tax Increment Financing Commissions in the city, which contributed to development of Crestwood Crossing.

“Certainly wanted to recognize him in helping lay the foundation for the success which we presently enjoy in the city, and I just wish him and his family the best,” Mabie said.