The Beverly Area Planning Association announced on April 1 that Herb Lentz has been appointed as its new executive director, following a three-month search. Lentz will succeed Mary Jo Viero, who retired at the end of 2025.
Lentz, a Beverly resident, previously worked as an associate and business director at an architecture firm in River North. He said his decision to take the role was motivated by his connection to the community. “This really feels like coming home,” Lentz said in a statement. “Public service has always been at the core of who I am, and to do this work in the neighborhood I love makes it that much more meaningful. Beverly/Morgan Park is a place I’m thrilled to call home, and I feel deeply connected to this community.”
In addition to his professional experience, Lentz serves as Local School Council chairperson at Sutherland Elementary School and holds degrees from Albion College and the University of Northern Iowa. He is also active within the neighborhood as a founding member of the Beverly/Morgan Park PFLAG chapter.
Lentz described his enthusiasm for joining an organization he has long supported: “It really does feel like a dream job,” he said. “When this opportunity came along, it felt like it was meant to be. I can’t wait to get out and talk to people, hear their stories, and work together on what matters most to this neighborhood.”
Founded in 1947, the Beverly Area Planning Association is a nonprofit focused on advocacy for various aspects of neighborhood living. Over time its priorities have grown from beautification projects and zoning issues to broader concerns such as business development, housing stock diversity, education initiatives and public safety.
