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Health & Fitness

A Priority in Skokie

It's time for the Village staff to develop partners, ambassadors, and advocates in the residents of Skokie to complement their efforts in attracting business.

Several friends and colleagues of mine sit on various commissions for the Village of Skokie. They are all uniquely qualified for their roles in effecting and influencing public policy in our town. Mayor Van Dusen and the Village Board have made superb selections for each of these community boards.  My understanding is that currently 250 residents participate and volunteer their time to discuss, debate, and vote on various initiatives. In my opinion, this is a reflection of our engaged, active, and participatory community and of course a great example of open government.

Recently, while browsing the Village of Skokie website, I stumbled upon the page which lists these bodies and their specific roles they play. Each commission has a page on the Village website that describes the bi-laws, terms, and a listing of the commissioners. I would recommend that you browse through the list, as chances are you know someone – a neighbor, friend, family member, or co-worker. The Village of Skokie site lists the following commissions:

Appearance Commission

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Find out what's happening in Skokiewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Public Safety Commission

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

Zoning Board of Appeals

But, there clearly is one missing. Don’t you think that in 2012, there should be a commission dedicated to economic development? In many other local communities, such as neighboring Lincolnwood, they have a functioning and active Board dedicated to the “encouragement and facilitation of economic growth in the Village”.

It’s time for the Village staff to develop partners, ambassadors, and advocates in the residents of Skokie to complement their efforts in attracting business, new retail businesses, and enhancing the entrepreneurial community in Skokie. If the Village was able to retain Kaufmans, attract Oberweis, and develop a Wal Mart in Skokie – just imagine what can be done with the addition of a team of dedicated and vested members of the community to assist in their efforts.  

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