Channahon Trustees Name Pena as Village Manager, Appoint Police Chief

Channahon trustees had their hands full Monday night, not only appointing Joe Pena as the new village manager, but naming their new police chief as well.

Trustees unanimously approved naming Jeff Wold as police chief, however the vote for Pena that paved the way for Wold's appointment was not unanimous.

Wold has been in the position on an interim basis for the past few months as Channahon Police Chief Joe Pena has , also on an interim basis. Former left the village in July.

On Monday night, trustees approved giving Pena the position permanently by a vote of 4-1, with Trustee Jerry Papesh absent.

As the only "no" vote, Trustee Judie Nash said she believes trustees should have opened the position to the public to find a candidate with experience as a village manager, especially in the area of economic development. Even so, she said she believes Pena can handle the job.

"I spoke with Joe (Pena) before the meeting," she said. "I think this is an important position and I don't doubt for one minute that Joe (can) handle the position."

Neither Pena nor Wold received an increase in salary or benefits. Pena remains at a salary of $109,554, while Wold will continue to receive $102,788.92.

The contract allows for Pena to resume his role as police chief and Wold to return to deputy chief should trustees choose to change the arrangement in the future.

The agreement approved Monday also names Pena as director of public safety, which allows the 36-year police veteran to continue as a sworn officer.

Wold has been with the department for 17 years. It is his second career, having previously worked as the assistant to the owner of grocery store chain Dominicks.

Following Wold's approval as police chief, Channahon Village President Joe Cook commended him for his service.

"There are very few people that dedicate themselves to service like Jeff Wold," Cook said.

Pena also had good things to say.

"I'm confident that Jeff will do an admirable job as our police chief," Pena said. "I'm hopeful that I can do as good a job as our administrator."