4 Candidates Vie For 2 At-Large Trustee Seats: Skokie Election 2025

SKOKIE, IL — Election Day is finally here and voters in Skokie will decide on who will represent the Village as at-large trustees.

Two seats are open with four candidates running for at-large trustee: Keith A. Robinson, Khemarey "Khem" Khoeun, Gail Schechter and Joseph S. Nowik.

This is the first election in Skokie that the new hybrid electoral system, which combines at-large and district-based Trustee positions, has been used. After voters approved a referendum in December 2023, the Village was divided into four geographic election districts.

Along with at-large trustees, residents will also vote for trustees to represent their specific district in Skokie.

All four at-large trustee candidates spoke with Patch about key issues in Skokie.

See related:

• Meet Keith Robinson: Candidate For Skokie At-Large Trustee
• Meet Khemarey "Khem" Khoeun: Candidate For Skokie At-Large Trustee
• Meet Gail Schechter: Candidate For Skokie At-Large Trustee
• Meet Jospeh Nowik: Candidate For Skokie At-Large Trustee

Village Budget and Fiscal Policy

Robinson: "Supports maintaining Skokie’s 35-year property tax freeze while investing responsibly in infrastructure, services, and sustainability. Additionally, seek broader ways of transparency with the budget planning process."

Khoeun: "Government spending should be directed toward projects that enhance our infrastructure, support small businesses, and promote the well-being of all residents. At the same time, I believe in accountability—ensuring that every dollar is spent with clear goals in mind and that residents see a direct benefit from the investments we make."

Schechter: "I would take a fresh look at the Village budget and the extent to which spending is constrained by tax levies on every Skokie property owner’s bill from other taxing bodies, which narrows Skokie’s options for planning and financing."

Nowik: "I will ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and transparently to benefit residents. Skokie deserves a government that spends efficiently, invests wisely, and puts residents first."

Local Crime

Robinson: "Public safety is a top priority, and I want to commend the Skokie Police Department for its dedication to serving our community. While no institution is perfect, the department has taken meaningful steps to enhance public trust, accountability, and the well-being of our residents."

Khoeun: "Skokie continues to be a safe and welcoming community. However, like many other towns, we must remain proactive in addressing crime concerns, particularly hate incidents and violent crime. A thriving community is built on public safety, which requires investment in early intervention and prevention, in addition to response."

Schechter: "Fortunately, the crime rate in Skokie is relatively low. Nonetheless, no Skokie resident or business should experience crime or live in fear. I know from first-hand experience as a community organizer and block captain in city and suburban areas that the best way to prevent and address crime is by forging a local culture and practice where people watch out for one another."

Nowik: "Skokie is a great community, but public safety must always be a top priority. While crime is relatively low, we must stay proactive to keep every neighborhood safe. I will work to ensure Skokie remains a safe, secure, and welcoming place for all residents."

Commercial and Residential Development

Robinson: "I am proud of Skokie’s economic growth, including the addition of 1,500 new housing units that provide diverse living options. A major milestone is the redevelopment of Old Orchard Shopping Center, where new residential units will offer convenient access to shopping, dining, and transportation while boosting the local economy."

Khoeun: "My approach to development would focus on ensuring that growth is sustainable, responsible, and inclusive, balancing the interests of residents, businesses, and the environment. I believe that by working together with all stakeholders, we can build a Skokie that grows thoughtfully while preserving the qualities that make it such a great place to live."

Schechter: "As Trustee, I will ensure that Skokie creates and implements housing policies centered on the people who live, work and study here. We have a duty to help alleviate the Village's serious shortage of housing for those with the fewest options and to ensure that fair housing laws are enforced so everyone has an equal chance to access the housing of their choice."

Nowik: "Skokie has great potential for smart, balanced development, but we must attract the right projects while protecting neighborhood character and property values. We need growth that benefits Skokie—not just developers. I will push for responsible, forward-thinking development that strengthens our community."