Kankakee, IL – Economic Development Director Frank Koehler wrapped up his last day with the City of Kankakee today. Koehler is retiring after more than 45 years in local government, serving communities in Kankakee, McLean, Cook, Kane, Lake and Will Counties.

Koehler has worked alongside Kankakee’s department heads on many projects and believes the city’s work is heading in the right direction.

“I have been honored to have had the opportunity to serve the citizens of the City of Kankakee. I have enjoyed being a part of the implementation of the Kankakee Riverfront Master Plan, attraction of new development at the 308 Riverstone Parkway Interchange, creation of the Kankakee Opportunity Zone Prospectus, formation of the Downtown Riverfront TIF, furtherance of the Kankakee Land Bank initiative, and plans to establish the Court Street TIF. The future of the City and Kankakee County is bright,” said Frank Koehler.

Koehler is also a member of the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Economic Development Council, International City and County Management Association, and the International Council of Shopping Centers. He will continue to be involved with the Potawatomi Paddlers Association, an organization that promotes safe and environmentally sensitive recreational use of the Kankakee River National Water Trail. The organization is currently working on fundraising for the construction of an accessible kayak launch.

Mayor Wells-Armstrong has combined Economic Development with Kankakee’s Community Development Agency and appointed Barbara Brewer-Watson as Frank Koehler’s successor.

“I am grateful Frank was able to work with my team and wish him well.  His years of experience proved to be a valuable asset in supporting the Kankakee Forward agenda.  The City has several economic development projects that have been completed and more to come.  As we transition, I trust in Barbi Brewer-Watson’s leadership to assist with driving the agenda to revitalize the City of Kankakee,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

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