Donny Schmit: A Dedicated Leader Committed to Fox Lake

Donny Schmit is a lifelong resident of Fox Lake with deep roots in the community. A proud graduate of Grant High School, Donny shares this legacy with his three children and several of his eight grandchildren, who are also proud alumni. Tragically, Donny recently lost his wife of 48 years to cancer, but his dedication to his family and community remains steadfast.

A Lifetime of Volunteerism

Donny began volunteering for Fox Lake as a grade schooler and hasn’t stopped since. Over the past 40+ years, he has contributed countless hours to the Village of Fox Lake, offering his time and expertise to improve the community. Some of his notable contributions include:

  • Installing water mains and sprinkler systems for the Village Hall and Fire Department.
  • Setting up the communication tower for the police department.
  • Serving as a member of the Fox Lake Volunteer Fire Department for over 30 years.
  • Coaching youth football and wrestling programs.
  • Volunteering at St. Bede Church and instructing for the Lions Club’s blind bowling league.

Donny’s dedication has always been rooted in selflessness, offering these services at no cost to the Village.

Leadership and Achievements as Mayor

Donny’s tenure in public service began on the Planning Commission and as a Trustee before he was elected Mayor. Each term has been defined by specific goals and measurable achievements:

First Term:

  • Saved Lakefront Park.
  • Introduced more transparent governance.
  • Streamlined processes for residents and businesses.

Second Term:

  • Focused on major street repairs, including Grand Avenue, Sayton Road, and frontage roads near Jewel/Menards and Dominic’s.
  • Upgraded parks like Grace Street, Millennium Park, and expanded Lakefront Park.
  • Addressed critical sewer and water infrastructure issues, saving millions for future generations.

Third Term:

  • Completed significant street repairs, including Holly Avenue, Nippersink Road, and Hickory Street.
  • Secured a $2.75 million grant to resolve flooding and repave streets in the Knollwood subdivision.
  • Enhanced Lakefront Park with a playground, beach, band shell, pickleball courts, splash pad, and more—all without raising taxes or fees.

Vision for the Future

If reelected, Donny’s priorities for the next four years include:

  • Revitalizing downtown Fox Lake.
  • Attracting new residential and business developments to expand the Village’s revenue base.
  • Continuing transparent governance, with agendas posted online and meetings accessible via Zoom.

Donny has a proven track record of keeping every campaign promise and is committed to doing so in the future.

A Team Effort

Donny believes that progress takes a team, not just one individual. He asks for your support not only for himself but also for trustee candidates Bernice Konwent, David Gauger, and Jeff Jensen. Like Donny, they are dedicated to making Fox Lake a better place for everyone, with no personal agendas or special interests.

Vote for Mayor Donny Schmit and The First Three for Trustee to continue moving Fox Lake forward. Together, we can achieve even more!