Commissioners select finalists to be the next Cook County adminstrator

The search for the next county administrator in Cook County was narrowed during a special meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18.
 
The commissioners selected four administrator candidates to interview Thursday, Sept. 10.
 
The applicants, chosen from a pool of 34 candidates, have a wealth of experience in government and administration, according to county officials.
 
The candidates to be the next county administrator in Cook County are as follows:
 
Linda Cadotte, the director of parks, recreation and forestry for the city of Superior, Wisconsin, also worked with the Animal Allies Humane Society for a number of years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in photography/mass communications/media relations and a master’s degree in public administration.
 
James Joerke is associate executive director for the non-profit organization Bridging the Gap. Prior to that, he served as the deputy director for the Department of Health & Environment at Johnson County, Kansas. Joerke holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in public affairs.
 
Scott Kelly is a lead grader-law examiner for the Minnesota State Board of Law Examiners. He has served as a court operations manager – criminal division for two judicial districts and as a staff attorney with the League of Minnesota Cities. He holds a bachelor’s degree, a juris doctor degree, and a master’s degree in public and nonprofit administration.
 
Dennis Liimatta has been a township superintendent for the charter townships of Grand Blanc, Michigan, and Marquette, Michigan. Liimatta holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing.
 
Interviews will be in-person in Cook County Sept. 10 utilizing COVID-19 best health practices, according to county officials. The interviews with the county board will be recorded and broadcast on the county’s YouTube channel.
 
WTIP’s Joe Friedrichs spoke with Interim County Administrator Rena Rogers for an update on the county’s search for the next administrator. The audio to their conversation is shared below.