Will County Gazette

The Village of Park Forest has appointed Jon Kindseth as the new village manager. This decision was made by the Park Forest Board of Trustees during a meeting on Monday night. Kindseth will take over from Tom Mick, who is retiring after 27 years of service to the community. Mick's last day is scheduled for June 20.

Kindseth previously held the position of deputy city manager in Decatur, Illinois. His experience also includes roles as village administrator in Beach Park, Illinois, and assistant to the city manager in Highwood, Illinois. In total, he brings over 15 years of local government experience to his new role.

The selection process for Park Forest’s next village manager involved a nationwide recruitment effort conducted with consulting firm MGT. A search committee made up of several village trustees narrowed down an initial pool of 62 candidates to 11 interviewees. Six semi-finalists were interviewed further, with two advancing to a final round that included panel interviews with board members and village department heads. Ultimately, Kindseth emerged as the top candidate.

Kindseth holds an undergraduate degree from Illinois State University and a Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University.

During Monday's meeting, Mayor Joseph A. Woods introduced Kindseth as the incoming village manager and gave him an opportunity to address those present. In his remarks, Kindseth expressed gratitude and excitement about his new role.

“It really is an honor and a privilege to be able to serve the Village Board, the businesses, and the residents who have been so well represented in the past,” said Kindseth. “I hope to continue the great work the Village Board has done to carry Park Forest forward.”

He added: “I’m humbled by this opportunity to lead such a remarkable team that Mr. Mick has assembled. I’ve never encountered a more professional staff dedicated to their jobs.”

Kindseth will officially begin his duties on June 23.