Knebel: A Commitment to Vandalia’s Future

“The Vandalia area has been home my entire life,” Doug Knebel shared during a recent

conversation, expressing his desire to enhance the city for families as its next mayor.

Knebel’s extensive background in finance and leadership underscores his capability to bring his vision to life. A former Certified Public Accountant, he spent nearly 10 years with the State of Illinois (finishing at the Vandalia Correctional Center) and has held notable positions such as Senior Commercial Relationship Manager at Midland States Bank, and currently serves on the Fayette County Board. He has also served on the TIF Advisory Committee.

These roles have shaped his approach to workforce development.

Knebel emphasizes the importance of expanding local opportunities, increasing business incentives, and fostering a regulatory environment that attracts new enterprises to Vandalia.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Knebel has committed himself to improving the local workforce. As Board Member and Treasurer of the Fayette County CEO program and a member of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Committee at the OKAW Area Vocational Center, he supports initiatives that prepare young residents for both college and trade careers through experiential learning.

Knebel also intends to address the availability and quality of affordable housing, which he sees as vital to improving Vandalia’s quality of life.

“Vandalia is a great place to call home,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of equipping the city’s police and fire departments with the resources needed to maintain safe neighborhoods. Knebel also voiced support for the recent decision to form a joint city and county 911 dispatch system site, which would enhance emergency response capabilities.

As Secretary of the Fayette County 911 Board, Knebel advocates for contractual partnerships like the one proposed with Rural Med’s ambulance service, having previously supported county contracts with the organization.

Citing OctoChem as a local success story, Knebel stressed the importance of prudent use of TIF funding. “We need to spend in a way that gives us returns,” he said. “When evaluating projects, we should ask how those operations can grow and become long-term investments for the city.”

Transparency and communication are central to Knebel’s platform. “I will have an open door and aim to keep the public informed,” he stated, adding that his experience on the Chamber of Commerce’s Advocacy Committee will aid him in fostering collaboration.

“The mayor is the city’s advocate,” Knebel said. “Collaboration with all stakeholders is essential.”

For voters unfamiliar with him, Knebel described himself as “passionate, real, and approachable.” He added, “I don’t have all the answers, but I have a proven track record of leadership and a deep belief in Vandalia’s potential.”

Knebel concluded with a message of gratitude and service: “We have a responsibility to give back and serve others. I am blessed to call Vandalia my home and would be honored to serve as its next mayor.”