West Chicago has introduced a Business & Community Relations Department aimed at strengthening economic development, community engagement, and investment. The new department consolidates multiple city services—including economic development, marketing and communications, special events, and museum management—into a single, strategic team.
“This initiative stems from recommendations outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Plan, which reflect the priorities identified by our business owners and residents through extensive public input,” said Michael Guttman, West Chicago City Administrator. “A thriving community is built on outreach, engagement, and investment, and this department will ensure a more cohesive and effective approach to these goals.”
The mission of the Business & Community Relations Department is to drive economic vitality, celebrate cultural heritage, and strengthen community connections. It will focus on attracting new investment, supporting local businesses, and enhancing West Chicago’s unique identity through strategic promotion and engaging events.
Staffing the department are Daniel Peck, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Nicolette Stefan, Special Events Coordinator, with Valeria Perez, Executive Office Manager, providing support. The department will also oversee museum management, currently contracted through Phalen Consulting.
Sara Phalen, City Museum Director, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“I’m excited that the City Museum has opportunities for further collaboration under the new city department. Kelley brings a lot of great ideas and drive to lead our new department, and I’m inspired to work more closely with her and the team.”
Leading the new initiative as Director of Business & Community Relations is Kelley Chrisse, who brings extensive experience from her previous role as West Chicago’s Economic Development Coordinator and her work in economic development across multiple communities.
“Kelley Chrisse’s promotion is a fantastic decision for West Chicago,” said Omar Espinosa, Vice President of Republic Bank of Chicago and Board Member of the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce. “Her commitment to investment—particularly in our downtown—her advocacy for the business community, and her collaborative, solutions-oriented approach make her the ideal leader for this role. I am confident she will drive meaningful progress for both residents and businesses.”
As West Chicago continues to evolve and grow, the new Business & Community Relations Department stands ready to lead efforts in fostering a vibrant, connected, and prosperous future for the community.
