May 08--The head of the Illinois Tollway is reportedly a finalist for the top job at the Central Florida Expressway Authority.
Kristi Lafleur, who has been executive director of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority since 2010, is one of two candidates being considered for the Orlando-based agency. The other finalist is the agency's No. 2 manager, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
A decision by the nine-member board is expected next Thursday.
There was no immediate comment from Lafleur. A spokewoman for the Tollway declined comment.
A change at the top of the agency would not be surprising, in the wake of Gov. Bruce Rauner's election.
As governor, Rauner controls the agency and appoints Tollway directors.
Five directors' terms expired May 1, but can be extended temporarily.
Lafleur was appointed in 2010. Prior to her appointment, she was a top aide to former Gov. Pat Quinn, serving as deputy chief of staff for economic development.
The Florida post can pay up to $250,000 a year.
Lafleur's salary at the Tollway is $189,000 a year.
The executive director oversees the Tollway's day-to-day operations, and nearly 1,600 employees, with a $1.02 billion annual budget.
Dan Tracy of the Orlando Sentinel contributed.
rwronski@tribpub.com
