With nearly two decades of dedicated service in municipal affairs, legislative coordination, and financial policy, Beth Beatty brings a wealth of experience to her role as the City Manager of Joliet. Appointed in late 2023, Beatty holds the distinction of being Joliet’s first female City Manager, overseeing the daily operations of nearly 900 employees and managing a substantial $500 million budget.

Having served under the administrations of Mayors Richard M. Daley, Rahm Emanuel, Lori Lightfoot, and Brandon Johnson in Chicago, Beatty's journey includes pivotal roles as Deputy Mayor of Intergovernmental Affairs and former Deputy CFO. Throughout her career, she has effectively executed the visions of elected officials, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex municipal landscapes.

Beatty's expertise extends to managing both public employees and private lobbyists, strategically advancing or opposing legislative and policy initiatives at federal, state, and local levels. Her professional relationships with leaders across various levels of government are expected to benefit Joliet, ensuring the city receives essential resources and addresses its needs for positive outcomes for residents and businesses alike.

A key architect in crafting and passing the City of Chicago’s annual multi-billion-dollar appropriations ordinance, Beatty's collaborative approach involves input from diverse stakeholders, including organized labor, community organizations, and the business community. Her emphasis on cultivating strategic relationships, even with those who may oppose her initiatives, highlights her commitment to fostering constructive dialogues.

Raised in Moline, Illinois, Beatty holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary's College and a Juris Doctor degree from John Marshall Law School. Additionally, she served as a law clerk for the Illinois Supreme Court’s Third Judicial District. Beatty values credibility with elected officials and their constituents, viewing it as essential for advancing any agenda. Her commitment to honesty and open discussion underscores her dedication to transparent and effective governance.

The City Manager implements City Council policy decisions, provides reports and recommendations to the Mayor and City Council, appoints and supervises City Department Heads, as well as manages and directs the operational activities and programs of the City of Joliet. 

The City Manager is committed to ensuring effective and efficient implementation of City policies set forth by City Council and managing the day-to-day operations of City Departments.  

The City Manager plans, directs, coordinates, and evaluates activities of all City Departments and related municipal functions, within guidelines and policies established by City Council.  The City Manager directs and participates in the preparation of the Council agenda; informs Council of the status of activities, programs, plans, and departmental operations; collaborates with representatives of other governmental agencies to improve intergovernmental cooperation and maximizes use of public resources.  

Additionally, the City Manager directs the preparation of the annual budget for the City with the Director of Finance, outlining revenues and a proposed spending plan for the Council’s review and implementing the approved budget.  

The City Manager’s Office is also responsible for issuing City media releases, as well as the preparation and publication of the Citywide newsletter. 

The City Manager provides direct oversight of the following departments:

• City Clerk
• Community Development
• Finance
• Fire Department
• Human Resources
• Information Technology
• Legal
• Police Department
• Public Utilities
• Public Works