All About The Caucus System

The Caucus System in Riverwoods is a state-authorized and regulated candidate selection process designed to seek out, select and support individuals who will agree to run for and, if elected, serve in positions on the village government.  The Caucus System was instituted for small communities to seek out, encourage and allow qualified residents to run for village office. 

The Caucus System is governed under the election laws of the State of Illinois ((10 ILCS 5/7-1) (from Ch. 46, par. 7-1) and (10 ILCS 5/7-10.1) (from Ch. 46, par. 7-10.1)) supervised by the Lake County Clerk.

At one time, the Caucus was a function of the Riverwoods Residents Association (RRA). However, the  not-for-profit status of the RRA could not be continued if the RRA was involved in political activities.

Caucus Advisory Council. The Council is made up of six residents who have served on a previous Caucus Nominating Committee, and who were elected by their peers on the Committee to serve overlapping six-year terms. The Advisory Council is the ongoing element within the Caucus System that provides continuity over time. It is charged with:

• • Maintaining and Updating the By-Laws and Standing Procedures

  • Forming the Nominating Committee for every election year.

  • Instructing the Nominating Committee on its assignment (number of candidates, what offices, terms, etc.).

  • Explaining the procedures under which the Nominating Committee must function, and being available to provide advice.

  • Retaining all records and Treasurers' reports.

The Caucus Nominating Committee. A committee of 13 Riverwoods residents appointed by the Advisory Council (per its bylaws) from the following groups of areas:

• • One member from each of the 7 geographic areas as defined by the Riverwoods Caucus Party map and one additional member from Thorngate to balance the number of representatives by population.

  • 2 members representing a combination of the key committees in the village;

    • 1. A retired or retiring member of the Village Board who is not standing for re-election.

      2. A member representing either the Plan Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals.

  • Three "At-large" members. 

  • There can be no more than three members from any geographic area.

This is a term set out in state statutes to describe a specific date established by the State Board of Elections, usually the first Monday in December,  when the Caucus (Town Meeting) is held.  On this date, the Caucus Nominating Committee must submit its candidates to the full membership of the Caucus Party.  Any voting-age resident of Riverwoods can claim membership in the Caucus Party by merely signing an affidavit to that effect. All those who sign the required affidavit may vote or nominate at the Caucus (Town Meeting).

• 1. The Caucus Advisory Council forms the Caucus Nominating Committee and charges it with its tasks.

  2. The Nominating Committee:

     1. • Publicizes its formation and candidate search.

        • Recruits residents to offer their candidacy for village office.

        • Publishes a candidate application form and prepares a series of "Issues and Position" questions to which each candidate is asked to respond.

        • Interviews all prospective candidates on the issues and positions. 

        • Selects (via secret ballot, in a closed meeting) one candidate for each office that needs to be filled.

        • Calls for, publishes and runs the Caucus (Town Meeting) to officially nominate candidates.

        • Finally, after candidates have been nominated, it is the responsibility of the Nominating Committee to support the candidates they selected in the general  election.

Trustees are elected positions but receive no pay. The Mayor is paid a modest salary. 

The Caucus Advisory Council is responsible for assisting in the procurement of funds for all Caucus administrative expenses. Traditionally, the RRA has provided support for public outreach each election year.  These funds are used for publicity, postage, citizen mailings and to provide refreshments, as needed, for interview meetings.

These funds may also be used for associated administrative expenses. Funds not spent are returned to the RRA.

If a contested election arises, RRA funds may not be used to support a political campaign. In this unusual circumstance, the Nominating Committee, Advisory Council, and candidates must raise funds to pay for campaign expenses.

We hope you find this explanation helpful.