LaSalle County committee appoints Abby Craft as chief county assessment officer amid questions about pay and dual duties
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Summary
The committee voted to appoint Abby Craft as LaSalle County chief county assessment officer beginning Dec. 1, 2025, with a first-year salary listed at $115,801. Members pressed on the salary increase and that Craft will cover both roles until a replacement is hired; staff said internal experience and a lack of qualified external applicants shaped the decision.
LaSalle County's committee on appointments, legislation and rules approved a resolution Nov. 26 to appoint Abby Craft as the county's chief county assessment officer, with a term beginning Dec. 1, 2025. The resolution lists a first-year salary of $115,801 and a term that, if the appointee remains employed by the county, extends to Nov. 30, 2029. The resolution ties future increases for the four-year term to county assessment-level thresholds that affect salary reimbursement under statute.
The appointment prompted questions from committee members about the salary and the fact Craft will cover her former duties until that position is filled. One member asked why the committee was moving to the top of the salary range immediately after a 10-year incumbent left and said, "That's quite the jump." Staff replied that the prior assessor, Stephanie Kennedy, had earned the listed amount and that salary and labor had concurred with the figure. County staff member Mr. Aubrey said the position had previously been posted with a $75,000–$100,000 range; three external applicants did not meet the requirements, while Craft — who has worked in the office for more than 20 years — passed the required test in October and was considered a qualified internal candidate.
Committee members also pressed whether Craft would perform both roles full time until a replacement was hired; staff said the county expects to fill the former position within about a year. The committee approved the resolution by voice vote. Recorded responses during the vote included Aye from Mister Small, Aye from Miss Bridal, Aye from Mister Gotza, while the chair recorded a Nay; two members were noted as not present.
Why it matters: The appointment fills a key county administrative role responsible for assessments and property tax administration. The salary figure and the temporary assignment of dual duties drew the most discussion.
Next steps: Craft's appointment takes effect Dec. 1, 2025. The county indicated recruitment for the vacated position will continue; no additional timeline for that hire was specified in the committee discussion.