Moving from behind the scenes back into a more public presence is Chuck Ruth.
The former Grafton Township Supervisor and Huntley School Board President has been in the fundraising part of political campaigns, including Finance Chairman for Lou Bianchi.
Here is the press release from Distrit 158;
Huntley 158 Board of Education Fills Board Vacancy
At a special board meeting on February 2, 2026, the Huntley Community School District 158 board of education selected Chuck Ruth to fill the vacant board seat, replacing Andy Bittman following his resignation at the end of December.
With deep roots in the Huntley area spanning five generations, Ruth brings a lifelong connection to the community and a broad background in business, leadership and public service.
His business career spans various industries, including construction, manufacturing, real estate, and farming.
He currently serves on the board of directors at Northwestern Medicine and Miller Midwestern Die Company, and is a member of the University of Illinois Foundation.
Past leadership roles include board president of Huntley Community School District 158, board chairman of the McHenry County College Foundation and Centegra Health System, supervisor of Grafton and Coral Townships, and founder of the Huntley Area Public Library, American Community Bank & Trust, Alliance Contractors, and the Challenger Learning Center.
He has also been actively involved with the Huntley Lions Club, Jaycees, Sesquicentennial, First Congregational Church, Chamber of Commerce, and the American Legion.
“We are pleased to welcome Mr. Ruth to our board,” said Board President Paul Troy. “His long-standing ties to the community, extensive leadership experience, and strong commitment to public service will be a valuable asset to our board and our school community.”
“It is my fervent desire to support and serve Huntley School District 158 to help maintain it as one of the best school systems in the state of Illinois,” noted Ruth.
Ruth will be sworn in at a special meeting before the Huntley 158 committee of the whole board meeting on Thursday, February 5, 2026 to begin his tenure on the board. His term will run through the spring of 2027.
About the Board Vacancy Appointment
Three individuals applied for the Huntley 158 board seat vacancy. Two of the three applicants were interviewed in closed session on February 2. The third candidate withdrew their application on February 2.
