The City of West Chicago recently formed the Business & Community Relations Department to provide a dedicated team focused on a cohesive approach to “outreach, engagement, and investment, which are the pillars of a healthy, attractive, and thriving community,” according to Michael Guttman, West Chicago City Administrator. "This decision was driven by the recommendations from the Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Plan, which reflect the priorities identified by our business owners and residents through extensive public input."
The new Department seeks to foster greater collaboration and engagement with residents, the business community, nonprofits and others looking to invest in West Chicago. It will consolidate multiple city services—economic development, marketing and communications, special events, and museum management—into one department.
The Department’s mission is “to drive economic vitality, celebrate cultural heritage, and strengthen community connections through strategically promoting local assets, organizing engaging events, and enhancing West Chicago’s unique identity.” The Department will spearhead initiatives designed to attract new investments, support local businesses, and create opportunities for residents to connect and engage with the City’s rich history and culture.
The creation of the Business & Community Relations Department reallocates talented existing staff, including Daniel Peck, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Nicolette Stefan, Special Events Coordinator, with support provided by Valeria Perez, Executive Office Manager. In addition to City staff, the Department will also oversee the contracted museum management currently provided by Phalen Consulting.
Leading the new Department as the Director of Business & Community Relations is Kelley Chrisse, who offers extensive experience as the City’s former Economic Development Coordinator and from serving in key economic development positions in other communities.
“Kelley Chrisse’s promotion to Director of Business & Community Relations is a fantastic decision for West Chicago. Her unwavering commitment to driving investment—particularly in our downtown—advocacy for the business community, and collaborative, common-sense approach to problem-solving make her the ideal leader for this role,” said Omar Espinosa, Vice President of Republic Bank of Chicago, and a Board Member of the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce as well as a West Chicago Economic Development Commissioner. “I am confident that Kelley’s guidance will drive meaningful progress and positively impact residents and businesses alike. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the City and supporting the new Department’s efforts.”
As West Chicago continues to grow and thrive, the new Business & Community Relations Department is ready to take the lead in shaping an exciting and vibrant future for our City.