The village of Skokie on April 23 announced the appointment of an economic vitality manager to oversee economic development and attract and retain developers, retailers, restaurants and other businesses to Skokie.
Rodney Tonelli, the former interim city manager for Joliet and president and CEO of the consulting firm Ruettiger, Tonelli and Associates Inc., was selected for the position. Tonelli started the position on April 22.
Tonelli’s responsibilities include strategically redeveloping village-owned property, supporting the continued growth of Skokie’s Illinois Science + Technology Park, and bolstering ongoing efforts to advance economic, residential and commercial growth in downtown Skokie.
Tonelli will work under the direction of the community development department director, according to village documents.
“(Tonelli) brings a regional perspective and extensive executive leadership, economic development, and urban planning experience to this important role,” said Community Development Director Johanna Nyden.
“I am delighted to join the Village of Skokie team,” Tonelli said. “I look forward to working with Skokie businesses and community partners to strengthen our local economy and advance Skokie as a premier and thriving destination to live, work, and visit.”
Tonelli was previously the director and chair of the Will County Center for Economic Development and the Joliet City Center Partnership. Over the course of his career, he’s held economic and community development leadership positions with the cities of Joliet, Lockport and Wilmington, the Village of Shorewood, and has advised more than 10 municipalities, per a news release from the village of Skokie.
“I look forward to (Tonelli) bringing his considerable experience and expertise to the Village and ultimately supporting and enhancing our business community,” said Village Manager John Lockerby.
