TO: Finance Committee
FROM: Kathy Franson, Director of Human Resource
SUBJECT:
title
Approval of New Position
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BACKGROUND:
City Manager’s Office - Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (1 position):
The Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will oversee Cultural Affairs, Bicentennial Park, City Square and City-wide special events. This position will enhance and promote Joliet’s rich cultural heritage by leveraging and coordinating the City’s resources and staff. This position will report to the City Manager’s Office and manage Bicentennial Park and the city square.
The Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will serve as a dedicated liaison to event organizers and serve as the City’s designated representative to facilitate seamless and successful events. Additionally, this position will proactively seek out regional and national event partners to attract larger entertainment events and retain events such as IHSA, NHRA, and NASCAR.
Finally, the Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will solicit grants, donations and sponsorships which will allow the City to mitigate current and future operating costs.
This position currently exists in many medium-to-large communities in northeast Illinois. Since this is a new position, a job description is attached.
Funding
The 2025 Budget introduced eight new non-sworn positions. Due to the timing between the start of the fiscal year and the filling of these positions, the savings is more than sufficient to cover the anticipated 2025 salary and benefits for this new position.
Because existing funds are already available, a budget amendment is not necessary.
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council approve the creation of the Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events position and authorize the City Manager to fill the vacancy.
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