A blend of leadership in community initiatives and deep local roots led Mayor Peter Schwartzman to nominate Angelica Mangieri for the Ward 1 seat on the Galesburg City Council.
In a letter released Thursday as part of the Sept. 15 City Council agenda packet, Schwartzman praised Mangieri’s qualifications, saying, “Angelica, one of eight applicants for the position, distinguished herself through her consistent dedication to improving our city, coupled with her creative, visionary outlook and a proven track record of successfully collaborating with a wide array of community members.”
A Galesburg High School graduate and lifelong resident, Mangieri built a career as a chef and restaurant owner. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, she founded CommunityGro — originally CommunityGlo — a free meal initiative that evolved into a movement focused on food education, sustainability and access, with advanced training in aeroponics.
Schwartzman further noted her community involvement, stating, “As vice president of the Downtown Community Partnership of Galesburg for several years, she played an integral role in leading the Café in the Park series and helped coordinate events such as the Holly Days Parade and Treat Street.”
As a mother of young children, Mangieri also brings insight into youth challenges, which Schwartzman highlighted: “As a mother of younger children, Angelica is also acutely aware of the challenges that young people face in our community.”
He added, “With her distinctive background and experience, I believe Angelica will contribute significantly to our council and effectively represent the members of Ward One.”
Mangieri told WGIL on Monday, “I am excited and honored to be nominated and look forward to serving the Ward 1 community if approved.”
The City Council is set to vote on the nomination at 6 p.m. Monday at City Hall.
Applicant list adjusted due to communication error
WGIL first reported Mangieri’s nomination on Wednesday after Schwartzman informed the council Tuesday of his choice from eight applicants. However, a review of city records shows a communication issue affected the process.
Hix, who resigned earlier this month after moving outside city limits, had represented Ward 1 since 2019.
