Kids & Family
Skokie Hires New Village Manager: John Lockerby
Nearly 70 candidates were considered for the position, and eight interviewed. Here's why the board chose Lockerby, who will not have to move his desk very far.
Skokie will have a familiar face to lead village staff after Village Manager Al Rigoni steps down at the end of the year.
The village board has named John Lockerby, who has worked as assistant village manager for the last nine years, to succeed him.
It wasn't a simple "you're promoted" decision, however, according to the village. The village board conducted a nationwide search and interviewed eight candidates, three of them extensively.
As late as last week, there were reports that Skokie had tried to court the city manager of Sterling Heights, Mich., who worked for Skokie until 2004.
In the end, the village chose Lockerby, for what Mayor George Van Dusen said is his proven track record, dedication to excellence and extensive experience with municipal budgeting.
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Following is the press the release the village issued late Tuesday.
The Village of Skokie announced today that it has completed its extensive search for a new village manager to commence the leadership of the Village on January 2, 2014. “I am very pleased that John Lockerby has accepted the Village Board’s request that he serve as village manager,” said Mayor George Van Dusen. Lockerby was chosen after a nationwide search, coordinated by a professional recruitment firm, which began during the summer of 2013.
“John’s proven track record in local government service, his extensive experience with municipal budgeting and dedication to excellence in municipal operations made him our unanimous, first choice to be the next village manager. His community-oriented, collaborative and accessible approach will serve residents and businesses well and become part of the values of Village operations,” Mayor Van Dusen added.
Lockerby has worked in municipal government for nearly 20 years, including service in three municipalities in metropolitan Chicago. During his nine years as Assistant Village Manager in Skokie, he listened to residents and worked tirelessly to assist with their concerns about Village matters. In addition to his experience, Lockerby holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Northern Illinois University and has earned the designation of Credentialed Manager from the International City/County Management Association.
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“In considering what I have accomplished during my tenure as Assistant Village Manager in Skokie, I am proud of maintaining our strong financial status, retaining our AAA bond rating and planning for the community’s long-term economic vitality, even while experiencing the most difficult economic conditions in decades,” said Lockerby. “I also am proud of the Village’s high-quality programs and services, and look forward to leading the team of dedicated Village employees who serve the community each day. Together, we will collaborate on best practices and innovations to strengthen the quality of life in the Village.”
In the search for a person to succeed retiring Village Manager Al Rigoni, the Village Board considered nearly 70 candidates from around the country. The Board vetted eight candidates in person and invited three finalists for extended follow-up interviews.
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