Lake Zurich looks to Gilberts for new village manager
Lake Zurich intends to hire a village manager who officials say has the ability to lead economic development efforts.
Ray Keller would replace Jason Slowinski as Lake Zurich's top administrator, according to a village announcement Tuesday. Keller would depart his post as village administrator in far west suburban Gilberts.
Village trustees are expected to vote Monday, Jan. 18, on Keller's appointment.
Lake Zurich Police Chief Steven Husak, who's been interim village manager since Slowinski's departure in September, said Keller has the experience needed to lead downtown redevelopment efforts and potential growth in the Rand Road corridor. Husak was part of the village manager search team.
"Lake Zurich was specifically looking for a local government manager who can craft meaningful and sustainable economic development initiatives," Husak said in a statement. "In the village's recruitment efforts, it was clear the board of trustees wanted somebody with an approach to economic development that emphasizes removing procedural barriers and employing the marketing, zoning and financial tools available to explore new opportunities for business and property owners alike."
Keller has been Gilberts' village administrator for nine years. His roughly 20 years of municipal government experience includes serving as DeKalb's city planner.
"I'm excited to work with the mayor, the trustees, the staff and the community to realize their goals for Lake Zurich," Keller said in a statement. "I look forward to building upon their successes to enhance Lake Zurich's character as a desirable place to live, work and thrive."
Slowinski resigned as Lake Zurich's village manager for a similar job in Golden, Colorado. Slowinski, who came to Lake Zurich from Des Plaines in May 2012, was credited by Mayor Thomas Poynton and others for achievements including creation of a six-point action plan as part of an effort to revitalize the village's downtown.
Husak will return to his police chief's post if Keller is hired as expected next week. Keller would start March 7.
Kevin Finlon, who has been interim top cop, would resume his duties as deputy police chief.
Slowinski's resignation announcement came about three months after he received a four-year contract extension in April 2015. His base salary as Lake Zurich village manager was set at $156,000 for 2015-16, with 1 percent annual raises and an opportunity for additional merit increases.