First Female City Manager Hired In Joliet's History

JOLIET, IL — Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy announced on Tuesday that Beth Beatty has been selected as the new City Manager of Joliet, making her the first woman to serve in this role in the city's history.

“I am confident I can work effectively with Mayor Terry D'Arcy and the Joliet City Council to help the city achieve its short-term and long-term goals, positioning Joliet as a leader in the region and the State of Illinois," Beatty announced in Tuesday's press release.

During her career with the city of Chicago, Beatty worked for Mayors Richard M. Daley, Rahm Emanuel, Lori Lightfoot and Brandon Johnson.

As Deputy Mayor of Intergovernmental Affairs and former Deputy CFO, she has experience managing both public employees and private lobbyists to advance or oppose legislative and policy initiatives at federal, state, and local levels

D'Arcy said he hopes she can begin her duties in the near future.

The Joliet City Council made this decision during a special council meeting held Monday evening. Beatty brings a strong background in municipal government and law to her new position, according to D'Arcy.

“Ms. Beatty's qualifications include a law degree and extensive experience in municipal government,” D’Arcy announced. “She served as a policy analyst, Deputy Chief Financial Officer of Finance, and most recently as the Deputy Mayor of Intergovernmental Affairs in the City of Chicago. With nearly 20 years of experience, she has worked closely with members of the Chicago City Council and will bring valuable expertise to her role as Joliet's City Manager,” added D’Arcy.

Beatty's relationships with leaders at all levels are expected to benefit Joliet by ensuring the city receives necessary resources and that its needs are addressed, resulting in positive outcomes for residents and businesses, Tuesday's press release from D'Arcy promised.

Raised in Moline, Beatty holds a bachelor of arts from St. Mary's College, a law degree from John Marshall Law School and she was a law clerk for the Illinois Supreme Court’s Third Judicial District. Joliet's new mayor said that Beatty values credibility with elected officials and their constituents as essential for advancing any agenda, and has a commitment to maintaining honesty and open discussion in her work.