City Economic Development Director Chris Aiston to Retire

St. Charles Economic Development Director Chris Aiston will retire Wednesday, July 31, 2013, after 30 years in government service. 

Aiston came to the city of St. Charles in November 2009 after earlier serving  as economic develop director for Kane County, as well as the City of Geneva, and as planning and zoning director for DeKalb County. 

“Chris brought new energy and a fresh perspective to St. Charles,” said City Administrator Brian Townsend. “He worked hard to advance the economic vitality of St. Charles during one of the toughest economic downturns our country – and our community – has faced. Chris was responsible for a variety of projects and initiatives, such as Restaurant Week, the Shop St. Charles Challenge, and real estate broker tours.” 

Aiston was pivotal in retaining businesses in St. Charles, such as Sears and three automobile dealerships; as well as attracting new businesses, such as the Triumph motorcycle dealership and RR Donnelley. He also was instrumental in fostering a more collaborative relationship with the Downtown St. Charles Partnership by cooperating on events, marketing, and advertising. He also has served on the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce since his arrival in St. Charles. 

“Having a lengthy career in public service has been blessing, particularly when finding successes along the way," Aiston said. "And then seeing tangible evidence of those successes in the form of community and regional economic development, well that's the icing on the cake.” 

Chris Aiston earned a master's degree in public administration with an urban management emphasis from Northern Illinois University; and a B.A. in anthropology from the University of Arizona, where he graduated Cum Laude with Honors. Aiston also served in active duty for the Army and the Illinois National Guard. 

For more information, contact Brian Townsend at 630-377-4425.

SOURCE: City of St. Charles