Metro East Sun

Collinsville Mayor John Miller recently presented native son Richard Mark with the key to the city.

Born and raised in Collinsville, Mark attended Collinsville High and played on the school football team. Afterward, he became a successful businessman and ultimately moved his Ameren Illinois headquarters back to Collinsville, bringing tons of jobs and a newfound energy with him.

“You know, we don't give this up very frivolously,” Miller said at a Sept. 13 City Council meeting. “It's given to those people that are willingly deserving. And like I told you earlier, it doesn't open anything, other than our hearts and the gratitude of what you've giving back to the city.”

In addition to presenting Mark with a key to the city, officials announced Executive Drive will also now be known as Richard Mark Way.  

“In honor of Richard Mark, his dedication to his home town, the work he did in the local government before he moved away, and his returning home to continue supporting the community, the city renamed Executive Drive to Richard Mark Way,” read the honor presented to Mark. “This is the same road on which Ameren’s headquarters are located, thanks to Mr. Mark.”

As part of the day’s activities, Miller also publicly swore in Trevor Meyer, a new police officer with the City department. Meyer was formally sworn in during an Aug. 22 police department ceremony; however, the City Council also prefers to have a public oath-taking for the officer that also allows the community to be a part of the occasion.