Sean Caddigan to Lead Joliet Park District in 2027
The Joliet Park Board has unanimously approved a three-year contract for the district's incoming executive director.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in People
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Starting January 1, 2027, Sean Caddigan will take over as executive director of the Joliet Park District. The board voted 5-0 to approve his three-year contract, which covers the period through 2029.
Why it matters
This appointment secures leadership continuity as current executive director Brad Staab prepares to step down from the role. Staab will transition to an advisory capacity following his departure.
The new executive director will receive a $180,000 base salary and a $750 monthly vehicle allowance, with a guaranteed minimum 2 percent annual pay increase. The contract also includes 25 days of paid vacation per year.
The players
Sean Caddigan
He is the incoming executive director of the Joliet Park District who is currently serving as deputy director.
Brad Staab
He is the outgoing executive director of the Joliet Park District who will remain with the district in an advisory capacity.
Joliet Park Board
This is the governing body responsible for overseeing the operations and leadership appointments of the local park district.
The details
Caddigan, who currently serves as deputy director, was selected following a board vote. His compensation package also includes paid contributions to the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund and the ability to sell back five unused vacation days annually.
Timeline
January 1, 2027 is the date Sean Caddigan begins his term as executive director.
The contract term spans the 2027, 2028, and 2029 calendar years.
Market Landscape
The contract confirms that the district will continue its standard practice of managing public pension contributions through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. This structure aligns the district's hiring practices with broader municipal workforce retention strategies in Illinois.
The transition to new leadership is administrative and is not expected to affect current park facility operations or public services. Residents will see no changes to existing programs or usage policies at district facilities as a result of this contract.
The takeaway
The appointment ensures a clear leadership path for the Joliet Park District as it manages its upcoming fiscal cycle. Residents can monitor future board meetings for updates regarding the specific advisory duties assigned to the former director.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership changes in our Joliet People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Patch.
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