Former Silvis alderman and retired longtime Rock Island Arsenal employee Charles Cervantes was appointed by Silvis Mayor Matt Carter to the board of commissioners of the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Rock Island County.
He replaces John McGregor, who resigned in October from the panel that oversees the Quad Cities International Airport in Moline. Mr. McGregor, who had been serving as acting treasurer first joined the commission in the summer of 2017.
In all, eight commissioners representing Rock Island County and each of the cities of Rock Island, Moline, East Moline, Milan and Silvis serve on the countywide airport authority. Commissioners are appointed by leaders of those government bodies and serve five-year terms.
“Our board of commissioners represents not only their individual cities but also the broader interests of our entire region,” QCIA Executive Director Benjamin Leischner said in a news release. “With Charles’ extensive background in service, I am confident he will continue to uphold that mission.”
Committed to QC growth
He added “Charles is deeply committed to the growth and success of our region. I have no doubt he will bring enthusiasm and engagement — precisely what we need as we continue to make historic updates at the airport and set our sights on an exciting future,” he added.
Mr. Cervantes retired from the Rock Island Arsenal after 35 years. He worked in the manufacturing branch, the Equal Employment Opportunity Office and lastly as a protocol officer for the U.S. Army Garrison. Since the Vibrant Arena at the Mark opened its doors in 1993, Cervantes has worked part-time as an usher supervisor. Mr. Cervantes also works part-time as a funeral assistant at VanHoe Funeral home in East Moline.
He was a charter member of the East Moline/Silvis Jaycees and president of VIVA Quad-Cities. The local leader also served as Silvis’ 4th ward alderman, chaired the Rock Island Arsenal’s 150th Anniversary Celebration and recently chaired the Silvis Civil Service Commission.
Mr. Cervantes was raised in East Moline. He graduated from United Township High School, Black Hawk College and attended Western Illinois University. He and his wife have lived in Silvis for 36 years. They have three children and nine grandchildren.
“Community service and helping others have always been core values in my life,” Mr. Cervantes said in the release. “This role allows me to serve not just my home community but all the residents of Rock Island County. It also gives me the privilege of supporting the broader Quad Cities area and the entire region that relies on and benefits from our airport.”
For more information about the airport visit qcairport.com.
