Lake Forest Names New City Manager

LAKE FOREST, IL — Skokie's assistant village manager has been appointed as the replacement for retiring City Manager Bob Kiely, departs after 28 years with the city. The City Council is scheduled to approve his successor's appointment at its Dec. 3 meeting.

Jason Wicha, 37, joined the village manager's office in Skokie in April 2014. He previously spent more than six years as the village administrator of south suburban Thornton, a town of about 2,500.

“I am honored to be selected as the next City Manager for The City of Lake Forest. I look forward to working with the City’s elected officials and professional staff," Wicha said.

As Skokie's chief budget officer, Wicha was responsible for notable improvements to infrastructure investment, contributions to public safety pensions and the village's enterprise software, according to a release announcing his appointment. Wicha was also instrumental in securing grants, negotiating economic development agreements and managing public private partnerships, it said.

"My family and I also look forward to becoming part of the Lake Forest community, with its rich history of service, philanthropy and volunteerism," said Wicha, who is married with two children, a 7-year-old daughter and a 4-year-old son, according to the release.

Kiely, 61, announced in July he would be leaving office at the end of January. More than 70 people applied for the job, and interviews with candidates began in October. Wicha's first day of work at the city is set for Jan. 28.

Mayor Rob Lansing, who is stepping down after the expiration of his first term in May, said he and Lake Forest aldermen believe Wicha would be an "excellent fit" for the community and its municipal staff.

“The City Council and I are impressed with Mr. Wicha’s professional demeanor, extensive experience and his leadership and management style," Lansing said. “He is well-versed in municipal processes and finance, and the many facets that comprise a healthy, thriving community such as Lake Forest.”

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