Woodstock Hires New Economic Development Manager

Woodstock, IL– Cathleen Tracy has joined the City of Woodstock staff in the role of Economic Development Manager. She started the job on Jan. 23.

As an ambassador for the City's business community, Tracy also serves as a project manager for economic development efforts. She is focused on fostering a business-friendly environment and attracting new businesses to the City of Woodstock.

“I am truly looking forward to working with business owners to help make Woodstock an even greater place to do business,” says Tracy. “I have always appreciated Woodstock’s historic Square, the eclectic shops, and the surrounding natural areas and am grateful for the opportunity to join the city’s economic development team.”

Tracy served as a Business Development Analyst for the City of Geneva Economic Development Department for the last seven years. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale. Her background also includes community organizing for regional nonprofit organizations and agencies in rural Southeast Ohio as well as development and communication roles at Chicago-based nonprofit organizations and universities.

“My projects will focus on business retention, expansion, and attraction,” said Tracy. “I plan to meet with the business owners, take a full inventory of local businesses and available property, identify opportunities, and work with the City to build a thriving local economy.”

Tracy replaces Krista Coltrin, who left the position in October after seven years. “Cathleen’s background in business development and her ability to foster relationships will fit in perfectly with the City of Woodstock,” said Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson. “Cathleen brings with her innovative thinking, experience working to build a strong community and the desire to support our local industry while attracting new business.”