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Skokie Appoints New Public Works Director

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 18:07 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Illinois, UNITED STATES

Skokie, IL - February 10, 2026 - The Village of Skokie has announced the appointment of Patrick Hastings as its new Public Works Director, effective February 15, 2026. This appointment signals a renewed focus on infrastructure maintenance, improvement, and sustainable development within the vibrant North Shore community.

Hastings, a Skokie resident of over four decades, isn't simply an experienced professional stepping into a new role; he's a deeply invested member of the community he will now serve in a leadership capacity. This local connection is considered a significant asset by Village Manager Jim Reynolds, who expressed his enthusiasm for Hastings' appointment, highlighting his "extensive background and commitment to public service." Reynolds stated that Hastings is "the ideal candidate to lead our Public Works Department."

Before returning to Skokie in a leadership role, Hastings honed his expertise through significant positions in neighboring municipalities and Cook County. He served as Deputy Public Works Director in Evanston, gaining valuable experience in managing a diverse range of public works projects. Prior to that, he contributed to the engineering departments of both the City of Chicago and Cook County, where he gained a broad understanding of large-scale infrastructure projects and the complexities of urban planning. These roles collectively demonstrate a progressive career trajectory focused on practical, hands-on experience in all facets of public works.

Skokie's Infrastructure: Current State and Future Needs

Skokie, a densely populated village with a diverse economic base, faces ongoing infrastructure challenges common to many established suburban communities. Aging water mains, sewer systems, and roadways require consistent maintenance and strategic upgrades. The village has been actively working to address these needs through its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which outlines a multi-year strategy for infrastructure investments. Hastings' arrival is timely, as the CIP enters a crucial phase with several major projects slated for implementation in the next few years. These include upgrades to the central wastewater treatment facility, a comprehensive road resurfacing program, and improvements to pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.

Beyond simply maintaining existing infrastructure, Skokie is also increasingly focused on sustainable infrastructure practices. This includes incorporating green infrastructure solutions - such as permeable pavements, rain gardens, and urban forestry - to manage stormwater runoff and improve environmental quality. There is also a growing emphasis on utilizing smart city technologies to optimize infrastructure performance, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery. Examples include implementing smart water meters, deploying real-time traffic monitoring systems, and utilizing data analytics to predict infrastructure failures before they occur.

Hastings' Expertise: A Synergistic Fit

Patrick Hastings' academic background in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois provides a strong foundation for his practical experience. A civil engineering degree equips professionals with the skills necessary to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure systems, including roads, bridges, buildings, and water resources. Hastings' combined academic knowledge and extensive practical experience positions him well to lead Skokie's Public Works Department through these evolving challenges.

His experience in Evanston, a community similarly focused on sustainability and innovative infrastructure solutions, suggests an understanding of best practices in these areas. Furthermore, his time with the City of Chicago and Cook County likely provided exposure to complex permitting processes, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement - all essential skills for a Public Works Director.

"I'm excited to join the Skokie team and contribute to the Village's continued success," Hastings stated. He added, "I look forward to working with the Public Works Department staff and the community to maintain and improve our infrastructure." This emphasis on collaboration underscores his commitment to a transparent and inclusive approach to public works management.

The appointment of Patrick Hastings represents more than just a personnel change; it's an investment in Skokie's future. His experience, combined with his deep roots in the community, promise a proactive and effective approach to managing the village's critical infrastructure and ensuring a high quality of life for its residents.