Above / During a chance meeting with Mayor Scott Wehrli and his wife, Lynda, at the first Naperville Municipal Band Concert of the season in Central Park, it became obvious they value tradition and military service. In fact, Lynda Wehrli said the first song on the evening’s program, “The Caissons Go Rolling Along,” written by a West Point graduate in 1908, was her favorite song. A little later in the conversation we learned the city’s new mayor also is looking forward as has been reported today. (PN Photo, June 1, 2023)
Mayor Wehrli addressed the letter dated May 24, 2023, to Kevin Warren, President and CEO
Chicago Bears Football Club, located in Lake Forest.
“Congratulations on your new position as President and CEO of one of the region’s most iconic businesses and beloved sports franchises. As a lifelong Bears fan, I respect that the team has decided that developing and operating its own stadium is essential for on-field success and pursuing championships.
“On behalf of the City of Naperville, I would like to formally introduce our community to your organization as you consider or reassess your planned relocation. The city would welcome the opportunity to review your business needs and our available properties. Through prudent planning, Naperville is accessible via our region’s major interstates and Metra. We have several available or to-be-available sites that may fit the characteristics you are looking for in your future home.
“Like you, I am new to my role. I pledged to pursue responsible economic development to support Naperville’s thriving economy. Being the home of the Chicago Bears would unlock tremendous economic benefits for our community.
“While I am new to being mayor, I have been on the Board of Directors of the Naperville Development Partnership, the city’s economic development partner, in my private-sector capacity as a business owner and community banker. This group has a track record of working with businesses to make investments in Naperville the right decision for their organization and our community.
“If you or your team would like to discuss your needs, please contact me at the information below. For any business looking to invest and create jobs, I provide concierge service and ensure you get all the necessary information to make a timely business decision.
“Good luck in your new capacity, and we wish the Bears luck in the upcoming NFL season.”
And the letter was signed by City of Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli.
According to a Daily Herald story posted this afternoon, “Plans for the Chicago Bears to plant their goal posts in the suburbs took a surprising turn Friday afternoon when Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli met with team President Kevin Warren to discuss the possibility of building a new NFL stadium in Naperville rather than Arlington Heights.”
Many local residents are well aware that Mayor Wehrli has can-do spirit that inspires him to do what’s best and right for all of Naperville. Thoughtful economic development is one area that’s always beneficial to local economies. —PN