Kane County Reporter

City leaders in St. Charles are set to discuss major development projects and long-standing property challenges in the upcoming episode of the City Insider podcast, scheduled for release later this month. The episode will address frequently asked questions about significant sites such as Charlestowne Mall, former Pheasant Run Resort, and the old police station site.

The podcast is hosted by Lisa Garhan and Kara Silva, who will be joined by Mayor Clint Hull, City Administrator Heather McGuire, and Economic Development Director Derek Conley. They will talk about recent achievements like the arrival of Whole Foods and the opening of Fox Haven Square. The discussion will also cover how decisions are made regarding city development and what obstacles exist with properties that have remained vacant for extended periods.

A segment titled Inside City Hall will introduce listeners to Alderpersons Ron Silkaitis and Mark M. Foulkes as they discuss issues relevant to Ward 1.

"City Insider, the City of St. Charles' podcast, explores the human side of public service through real conversations with City staff and elected officials. Co-hosted by Lisa Garhan and Kara Silva from the City’s Communications team, episodes bring listeners behind the scenes of essential city services, revealing the stories driving the work that keeps the city running smoothly. Each episode includes two segments: a discussion with staff on a service-centered topic, followed by a segment sharing insights from local elected leaders. The six-episode limited series drops a new episode every other month (June 2025 to April 2026). It's available on Spotify and YouTube," according to information provided about the show.

The podcast is recorded at the Sound Studio located in the St. Charles Public Library.