The Decatur Park Board of Commissioners has selected a candidate to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Jack Kenny. On Tuesday, the Decatur Park Board of Commissioners unanimously selected Matt Whitehead to be appointed to complete the remaining two-year term.
The Board’s appointment of Whitehead to the vacant Commissioner position endorses its goal of having individuals in leadership positions who are involved in the community, committed to serving the Park District, and bring desirable skills to the Board’s leadership.
“The Board of Commissioners was impressed by Mr. Whitehead’s experience, organizational leadership skills, finance background and history of board service which are qualifications we felt made him an excellent candidate for this appointment. His passion to give back and do all he can to help this community be the best it can be matches the mission of the Park District,” stated Stacey Young, President of the Decatur Park Board of Commissioners.
Mr. Whitehead, a lifelong Decatur resident and graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, completed his undergrad studies at Richland Community College and the University of Illinois-Springfield where he obtained his Bachelors in Accounting. Whitehead began his career in banking and worked for the Decatur Family YMCA for 13 years. He spent his last 6 years at the YMCA serving as its CEO. In 2020, he resumed his career in banking when he accepted a position as Vice President of Scott State Bank. He currently serves on the Richland Community College Foundation Board and was named the 2021 Richland Community College Alumnus of the Year. He is married to Sarah Gillespey, and together have four children.
“I am very excited and humbled by this opportunity to serve on the Decatur Park Board of Commissioners. I look forward to working with the Board and leadership to further the Park District’s mission of enriching our community’s quality of life, health & wellness, education, and economic vitality by providing outstanding parks, facilities, and recreational opportunities,” stated Mr. Whitehead.
The official action to appoint Mr. Whitehead is expected to take place at the next Board of Commissioners meeting on Wednesday, April 21.
To contact Decatur Park Board Commissioners, please visit decatur-parks.org/board-of-commissioners/