West Chicago hires new community development director

West Chicago, Illinois: September 17, 2012 – The City of West Chicago has announced the hiring of John D. Said for the position of Director of Community Development. Said, who is certified through the American Institute of Certified Planners, joins the team at City Hall to manage the multi-faceted department which is responsible for planning and zoning, code enforcement, commercial and residential permitting and economic development. He reports directly to City Administrator Michael Guttman.

According to Guttman, Said's impressive leadership skills and track record in economic development will serve the City well. “John is an accomplished professional with more than 25 years of experience in municipal planning and development, most recently in Morton Grove. His high energy, management style and extensive network will be tremendous assets in streamlining development processes and attracting new interest in our commercial and industrial corridors.”

Said brings a level of expertise for a wide range of development projects from suburban downtowns to auto-oriented corridors to industrial areas. His proficiency in preparing development regulations, writing zoning amendments and implementing comprehensive development programs has earned him recognition from the American Planning Association's Illinois Chapter and the International Economic Development Council.

“It's a very exciting time to be a part of West Chicago's continued development,” Said commented. “As one of the few remaining cities in DuPage County with large tracts of available land, its potential is unlimited.” Perhaps the most exciting prospect for him is the DuPage Business Center, located at Fabyan Parkway and Illinois Route 38. “My enthusiasm for this property is one of the things that attracted me to the community. This is a huge opportunity for forward-thinking companies looking for a location that offers many highly desirable amenities. I'm anxious to begin a dialogue with them.”

Said is also excited about the future of downtown West Chicago and the prospect of the City's vision for the Washington Street Redevelopment Project. “I believe in this community and its many competitive advantages, and I'm thrilled to be part of its planned growth.”