St. Charles expected to OK new economic development director

St. Charles officials have been seeking a long-term employee to guide economic development in the city since the early days of City Administrator Brian Townsend's tenure. Now officials believe they've found that person.

The city announced Monday that Chris Aiston is expected to be confirmed as St. Charles' newest economic development director. Aiston is currently Kane County's director of economic development. He would replace Brian Pabst, who left St. Charles after only a short time on the job.

Kane County's economic development department is expected to undergo a reorganization following the retirement of Planning and Development Director Phil Bus. Bus' last major project before leaving was to formulate a new organizational structure that is perhaps a bit more flexible during times when the economy doesn't allow for much development activity. Bus' plan will not include Aiston now that he is joining the staff in St. Charles. If confirmed by the city council Nov. 16, Aiston will earn $115,000.

When Pabst left the city earlier this year, council members made it clear hiring a replacement should be one of the main focuses of the city's human resources staff.

"It should be one of the most visible positions in the city," said Ward 5 Alderman David Richards at the time. "Perception is everything."

City officials' perception is that stealing Aiston away from the county will prove to be a major coup for the city.

Aiston, who lives in Geneva, was selected from a field of 90 applicants and after three rounds of interviews with city staff, local business representatives and the city council along with Mayor Don DeWitte.

"Chris will build on the solid foundation of quality economic development programs and initiatives in St. Charles," DeWitte said in a statement. "He will be tasked with improving and enhancing the economic environment by working with property owners, the business community, and others interested in enhancing the economic vitality of St. Charles. His significant credentials in the economic development arena and prior experience in the Tri-Cities area will be tremendous assets, allowing him to hit the ground running."

One of Aiston's priorities will be guiding the progress on the massive First Street development project, which is viewed as the key to the future of the city's downtown. The rejuvenation of Charlestowne Mall and the property surrounding it will also be an important task, as will bringing more retail to the city's Randall Road corridor.