The Town of Normal is expanding its reach with the newly designated Communications Manager position. (photo by B. Corbin)

By Zach Dietmeier

NORMAL - The Town of Normal is creating a new staff position for the digital age.

Bloomington-Normal native Heather Beal has been appointed as the town's Communications Manager. According to City Manager Mark Peterson, the position will help Normal to better communicate with the local and global community.

"Not only are we providing information to the community and our customers but they are giving us feedback and asking questions and offering suggestions," said Peterson. "Managing that aspect will be a big part of this particular position."

In the technology age, Peterson wants to improve communication skills.

"The goal is to communicate with our customers, who are the residents of the community we serve," said Peterson. "We will also improve our internal communication to more effectively market the community as well communicating with folks outside the community who might have an interest in what we are doing."

Peterson was very pleased by seeing 74 applicants for the new Communications Manager position.

"We had a good group from which to select," said Peterson.

Peterson also said that Beal's local ties along with her strong background in corporate communications, marketing, and public relations should prove valuable in the new slot. He added that a major focus of the Communications Manager will be to draw new business opportunities to town.

"It will be crucial to tell the story about Normal while getting our image out to companies that may be interested in considering Normal for a future business location," said Peterson.

Beal is a Normal Community High School amd University of Illinois graduate. She will start her new responsibilites on Dec. 3.

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at zach.dietmeier@cumulus.com.