Lake County Gazette

The Village of Lindenhurst has announced the hiring of Emily Shaw as its new Economic Development and Special Projects Coordinator. This newly created position will serve as the village's primary business liaison, focusing on business recruitment and retention while streamlining processes to reduce barriers to new development.

Shaw brings a robust background in economic development, having previously served as a management analyst in the Community & Economic Development Department for the City of Des Plaines. In that role, she managed the city's business assistance program, oversaw Cook County Class 6b tax incentives, developed a quarterly e-newsletter for businesses, and coordinated the annual Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Joint Review Board Meeting. She also has municipal experience with the Village of Elk Grove and the City of Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Shaw holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a concentration in Public Administration from Lake Superior State University and a Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University.

As Lindenhurst's first full-time economic development staff member, Shaw will play a key role in implementing strategies to attract, retain, and expand businesses while promoting the village as a prime business destination. She will also assist in executing the village's streetscape and design plan for the Grand Avenue Corridor, fostering a cohesive and vibrant corridor.

Shaw joins Lindenhurst at an exciting time as it continues to experience significant growth including adding 300 new residential units and nearing full occupancy at the revitalized Lindenhurst Center. She will also help leverage the village's first TIF district along Grand Avenue to support redevelopment efforts in this corridor.