Batavia alderman to lead downtown business organization

Batavia Alderman Jamie Saam is giving up her council seat to become executive director of Batavia MainStreet.

The business organization announced her appointment Friday.

Saam will take over for Joi Cuartero, who resigned in May after four years with the organization.

Batavia MainStreet is also adding an assistant director, and named Cathy McNally to the position.

"We were very fortunate to have so many excellent candidates express interest in leading our organization," Rob Hollis, Batavia MainStreet vice president, said in a prepared statement. "Being able to add both Jamie and Cathy to our leadership team has exceeded our expectations and puts Batavia MainStreet in a great position to serve our community and fulfill our mission for many years to come."

Saam has been a 4th Ward alderman since 2013.

She has served on the MainStreet board, is a member of the board of the Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, and is a member of the Batavia Arts Council. She and her husband own Bulldog Plumbing.

"I am thrilled for this opportunity to dive deeper into the economic development and revitalization efforts of Batavia MainStreet here in downtown Batavia," Saam said. "My heart's passion is truly assisting with bringing people into the heart of this community to live, work and play."

McNally volunteers with LivingWell Cancer Resource Center Tri-City Family Services in Geneva and Batavia United Way.

The duo starts June 10, the day of Batavia MainStreet's annual meeting. There will be a reception at 5 p.m. at Pal Joey's restaurant, 31 N. River St.