Former Buffalo Grove manager Balling takes helm in Lake Barrington
After longtime village administrator Chris Martin abruptly resigned two weeks ago, Lake Barrington has tapped consultant William R. "Bill" Balling to serve as day-to-day decision-maker until they find a replacement.
Balling, who served as village manager of Buffalo Grove for 29 years, started last week as acting village administrator.
Village President Kevin Richardson said he has a great deal of confidence in Balling. They first worked together in 2010, when Richardson was co-chairing a Lake County water advisory committee. Balling did an impressive job as a consultant for the panel, Richardson said.
"He did just an absolute first-rate job. I was greatly impressed with his organization," Richardson said. "When need arose for the village, he was at the top of my mind."
Richardson declined to comment on the reasons for Martin's sudden departure. The village issued a two-sentence statement Jan. 11 announcing that Martin, who served as administrator for about 12 years, was leaving to "pursue other opportunities." Martin could not be reached for comment.
Balling runs Arlington Heights-based WRB LLC Management, which offers services including executive recruitment, management reviews and interim management. Last year, Balling served in an interim capacity at positions in Tinley Park and as city manager of Prospect Heights.
In addition to serving as Lake Barrington's acting village administrator, he also will conduct a management review of the village, Balling said.
Richardson said he likes that someone of Balling's significant experience will be looking at their practices with a fresh set of eyes.
"If there's one constant in life, it's change," he said. "(Balling) will see if there are opportunities that could serve the taxpayer."
Village trustees will choose whether or not to approve a contract with Balling's company at their Feb. 7 meeting. Until then, Balling will serve on a "precontract" basis.
Balling said when the time comes he would like to lead the village's search for a new village administrator.