Lisa Aprati Appointed New City Administrator of Chicago Heights

Former Fifth Ward Ald. Lisa Aprati will be taking a new role in the Chicago Heights city government.

At the Monday city council meeting Mayor David Gonzalez sought the council's approval in appointing Aprati to the city administrator position, also known as chief of staff, in the mayor's office.

"I think Lisa Aprati brings so much experience, being a former alderman, former park district commissioner," Gonzalez said before the vote. "I'm excited about her coming aboard."

The council voted unanimously in favor of the appointment.

In a press release, issued by the mayor's office, Aprati expressed her gratitude for the opportunity.

"I was humbled when Mayor Gonzalez asked me to serve in this position tapping my love for this city and my 16 years of public service," said Aprati. "I am looking forward to again serving the people of Chicago Heights in this new capacity. This is an honor I did not expect."

Current chief of staff Matt Fares said he will be helping the new administrator adjust into her role with the mayor's office, which starts Monday July 11.

"To have her come in and not understand what’s going on, it’s very important that she gets up to speed to take the administration of the mayor where he wants to go," Fares said. "But it’s a good move. I’m very supportive of it."

As for Fares, he will be taking on a new position after Aprati gets her feet wet.

"I’m going to head up some departments over at the police station," Fares said.

The outgoing chief of staff received praise and applause from the mayor, the council and his colleagues at the meeting.

"I'd just like to tell Matt, thank you for all your hard work over the years," said Sixth Ward Ald. Vincent Zaranti, who was the interim mayor following the 2010 death of Mayor Alex Lopez. "You were a big help to me when I was in there for nine months and I certainly appreciate it, and I know you'll do great.

Aprati was alderperson for the Fifth Ward for 12 years before leaving her position this past spring. She has had a long career as a journalist, working as an on-air reporter for an ABC TV affiliate in Rockford and later becoming a producer for Comcast and Newsmakers on CNN Headline News.