Mount Prospect honors development director Cooney's 25th anniversary

Mount Prospect village board members recently recognized Community Development Director Bill Cooney for 25 years of service to the village.

Cooney began in January 1994 after working in the community development department of his hometown, Arlington Heights, where he had risen to deputy director.

When he heard of a position in Mount Prospect, he threw his name in the hat.

"It was in a town I knew as a neighboring deputy director," he said. "I always had a lot of respect for Mount Prospect. For a planner, there are a lot of opportunities."

In the past quarter century, Mount Prospect has seen growth throughout the village, with the redevelopment of Randhurst Village, the development of the Kensington Business Center and the recent achievements downtown, including the 20 West project and the Maple Street Lofts.

Cooney said his proudest achievements include the evolution of the downtown district, the revitalization of Randhurst, the role of the Economic Development Commission in driving down vacancies and recent annexations on the south end of town.

"Bill has done a tremendous job," Village Manager Michael Cassady said.

"We have really made a lot of progress in the last few years on some significant achievements. I have really appreciated working with Bill. Technically, he is extremely gifted."