KANKAKEE, Illinois - On July 1, 2024, the first reading for the creation of a City Manager position was heard by the Kankakee City Council. A final reading of the ordinance will be voted on at the July 15, 2024 City Council meeting.

In anticipation of approval for the ordinance, Mayor Christopher Curtis will appoint Elizabeth D. Kubal to the position of City Manager and place her appointment on the July 15, 2024 City Council Agenda. The appointment seeks the consent and approval from each of the 14 Alderpersons.

Mayor Curtis stated that the City of Kankakee would remain Mayoral led, and as the full-time Mayor, he would continue to work as strongly and passionately as he has for the past 3 years. It is Mayor Curtis' belief that the time has come for the City of Kankakee to  retain a City Manager to further the progression of the City's growth and economic stability.

Mayor Curtis commented that the timing of the creation of the City Manager position is perfect. "Our City is experiencing economic development and growth that it hasn't seen for many years. The time is right and we should move in an opportunistic direction. A City Manager will provide a valuable resource to not only assist and manage day-to-day operations, but also promote the progress and stability this community deserves."

Kubal has over 22 years of governmental experience that includes an extensive background in finance and accounting, fiscally sound budgeting, governmental and institutional compliance, union negotiations, and development agreements. Kubal has served as the City Comptroller for 11 years.

Mayor Curtis stated, "Elizabeth Kubal is the ideal fit for the City Manager position. Her vision for a thriving community coupled with her diverse skill set and knowledge of the City will provide Kankakee with strong leadership for future success. I have the utmost confidence in her decision making, managerial style, strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead. Our vision, policies, ideas and decisions often mirror one another and with Kubal in the City Manager position, I believe our residents and community will see long lasting benefits."

Elizabeth Kubal commented, "I'm very excited for the opportunity to lead and advance the City of Kankakee as its City Manager. It is truly an honor to serve the residents of this great City. I'm ready to build upon the City's strong foundation and history and work collaboratively with our dedicated staff and City Council to keep moving Kankakee into the future." Additionally, Kubal said, "I'm looking forward to the completion of the current development projects within the City and implementing the goals of this administration ."

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