Villa Park appoints Chief Mike Rivas as next village manager

In a pivotal special meeting on May 28, 2025, the Villa Park Board of Trustees took a significant step towards leadership stability by moving to appoint Chief Mike Rivas as the next village manager. This decision, pending board approval, reflects a strategic choice aimed at addressing several pressing challenges facing the community.

Trustee Constatos initiated the motion for the resolution, which was seconded by Trustee Cozart. Following the motion, Trustee Constatos expressed strong support for Rivas, highlighting his extensive qualifications and leadership experience. Rivas, who holds a master's degree in public administration from the University of Illinois, has served as the police chief and is recognized for his professionalism and integrity.

Trustee Constatos emphasized Rivas's proven track record in labor force stabilization, a critical asset as municipalities nationwide face workforce challenges. His ability to build cohesive teams and foster a collaborative workplace culture has been instrumental in improving morale within the police department. Rivas's skills extend beyond leadership; he is also noted for his grant writing capabilities and effective communication, earning respect from both staff and residents.

The appointment comes at a crucial time for Villa Park, as the village grapples with several significant issues. These include the need for a finalized budget, which has been inaccessible for months, and stalled development projects at the Metro station and Villa Avenue. Additionally, staffing and retention concerns across various departments necessitate a focused approach to strengthen internal operations and support the workforce.

Trustee Constatos concluded by expressing confidence in Rivas's ability to navigate these challenges, emphasizing the importance of timely communication with the village board and residents as the community moves forward. The board's decision to appoint Rivas could mark a turning point in Villa Park's governance, setting the stage for renewed leadership and strategic focus in the months ahead.