Sugar Grove discusses transition plan for departing finance director; board supports a limited professional-services contract

Finance Director Matthew (Matt) Anastasia told trustees he will leave the Village of Sugar Grove on Oct. 3, 2025, and accepted a proclamation and recognition from the board for his service. During discussion on a staff-proposed professional-services agreement, staff said it would be valuable to retain Anastasia as an independent contractor for transitional support and occasional consulting at a proposed rate of $95 per hour.

"He set us up with great policies and great work," a staff presenter said, arguing that retaining Anastasia on a limited basis would smooth the transition for a new finance director and provide immediate access to institutional knowledge and the village’s financial system vendor. The staff presenter said specialized issues such as levy work, unique tax agreements or one-off reporting tasks could be handled by Anastasia without hiring a more expensive outside finance firm.

Trustees expressed support for drafting a professional-services agreement; the board asked the village attorney to prepare a contract for consideration. Anastasia said he anticipates a reduced number of hours, with periodic calls and short-term support during busy months like levy and budget season. Staff said anticipated budget savings from the vacant finance-director salary could offset the cost of a limited consulting agreement.

Why it matters A planned transition in a key finance role carries operational risk for municipal functions such as levies, audits and utility rates. Retaining Anastasia on contract is intended to preserve institutional knowledge and reduce onboarding friction for a successor.

What’s next Village staff asked the attorney to draft a professional-services contract; the board signaled support. Staff will return the draft agreement for formal board consideration and will continue recruitment for a permanent finance director.