Meet David "Azi" Lifsics: Candidate For Skokie Mayor

SKOKIE, IL — David "Azi" Lifsics is running for Mayor of Skokie in the April 1 election.

During his career, Lifsics has worked as an attorney with the Law Office of Paul Chatzky and subsequently with Mauer & Madoff. Lifsics has also served as President of the Jewish Neighborhood Development Council.

He is running for Mayor against Ann Tennes and Charles Isho.

Learn more about Lifsics and his goals for Skokie:

Age (as of Election day)

42

Campaign website

www.aziforskokie.com

Education

Law Degree

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

Emergency Preparedness

The recent water main break tested Skokie’s emergency response system, and while our crews worked tirelessly in challenging conditions, this incident revealed two key areas for improvement: (1) a need for a thorough forensic review of our infrastructure, and (2) an increase in resident participation in the Smart911 system.

To address these issues, I propose:

Infrastructure Forensic Investigation – We need a detailed assessment of Skokie’s water infrastructure, using imaging technology to inspect underground pipes without the need for extensive excavation. This will allow us to identify weak points before another catastrophic failure occurs.

Enhanced Emergency Communication – To ensure residents receive critical updates, we must expand participation in Smart911. I propose a system similar to the State’s motor-voter initiative, where every resident renewing a village sticker or paying a quarterly water bill is prompted to sign up or update their emergency contact information.

By implementing these measures, we can both prevent future crises and improve response times when emergencies do arise.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a unique combination of legal, governmental, and mediation expertise that allows me to approach challenges with both analytical precision and practical solutions. As a mediation-trained attorney with deep experience in government affairs and public policy, I am ready to be an effective advocate from day one.

My strong relationships with elected officials at the federal, state, county, and local levels mean I not only know who to call when something is needed—I know my calls will be answered. My experience attending Village Board meetings regularly has given me firsthand insight into Skokie’s operations, making me well-prepared to lead effectively.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

Open Seat

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

No Property Tax Levy Increase - Skokie has successfully avoided raising the property tax levy for over 35 years, and I will work to continue that policy for the next four.

Expanding Economic Development - To attract new businesses, I propose creating a network of Skokie Ambassadors - residents who will share key data with successful businesses outside the village, including available commercial space, rental costs, and key contacts. This will make it easier for businesses to open in Skokie.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My professional background has equipped me with the skills necessary to serve effectively in this role:

• As legislative counsel to a Chicago Alderman, I gained valuable insight into municipal governance, balancing competing interests to find the best path forward.
• My legal training allows me to interpret complex legislation and assess its impact on Skokie residents.
• My mediation training helps me navigate differing viewpoints, uncover the real concerns behind positions, and develop creative, consensus-driven solutions.
• I have successfully handled law firm mergers, managing competing priorities and ensuring smooth transitions.
• My long-standing relationships with government officials at all levels will allow me to efficiently connect Skokie to the right resources when needed.

Why should voters trust you?

I believe in open, direct communication. I have already shared my personal cell phone number with residents and have had meaningful one-on-one conversations with Skokie residents from all over the village. If a voter has a question, they don’t have to go through layers of bureaucracy—they can reach out to me directly, and I will listen.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

Bringing more small businesses to all commercial corridors, ensuring economic growth benefits every corner of Skokie. A thriving, diverse local economy strengthens our community and enhances our quality of life

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

Beyond public safety, there is no greater responsibility than safeguarding taxpayers’ hard-earned money. Every policy decision involving public funds must have clear metrics for success and a full assessment of secondary impacts. Good money should not be thrown after bad, and every expenditure should be made with long-term sustainability in mind.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

Reinvigorate the Neighborhood Watch Program – Neighbors are the first line of defense in public safety. Strengthening these programs helps residents look out for one another and fosters stronger community ties.

Support Our Police Department – Skokie has a top-tier police department, and we must ensure officers have the funding, training, and equipment necessary to do their jobs effectively.

Recruitment & Retention – Competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and community engagement initiatives will help Skokie attract and retain the best law enforcement officers.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

Skokie has done an admirable job balancing growth with maintaining the character of our community. However, as we look to the future, we must ensure that development is intentional, sustainable, and serves the long-term interests of residents and businesses alike.

Commercial Development:
Skokie has successfully attracted major retailers and commercial investments, but we must ensure that future development fosters economic diversity and walkability. A mix of retail, dining, office space, and entertainment options creates a dynamic environment that benefits both businesses and residents.

We should also focus on filling commercial gaps—identifying what businesses residents leave Skokie to visit and working to bring those services and businesses here.

To encourage entrepreneurship, the Village should streamline business licensing and permitting processes, offering incentives or resources to help small businesses and startups thrive.

Residential Development:
As housing needs evolve, we must ensure that our residential development keeps pace. Skokie is a diverse community, and our housing options should reflect that diversity by providing opportunities for young professionals, growing families, and seniors looking to downsize.

A priority is expanding senior-friendly housing, particularly near public transportation, grocery stores, and medical services. Many longtime residents wish to stay in Skokie but struggle to find suitable downsizing options.

While ensuring responsible growth, we must also preserve the character of Skokie’s neighborhoods, maintaining the balance between development and green space to enhance quality of life.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

Commercial Development
Skokie has done well attracting businesses, but we need a greater variety of establishments operating at different times of day to encourage walkability and community engagement.

Conducting a detailed survey of where residents shop outside Skokie will help us strategically attract businesses that fill local gaps.

Residential Development
Senior Housing – Many seniors in Skokie want to downsize but lack viable housing options. Increasing senior-friendly housing near public transit, grocery stores, and pharmacies would allow them to remain in our community while freeing up larger homes for younger families.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

"You have two ears and one mouth. Listen twice as much as you talk."

Good leadership starts with listening, and I am committed to hearing directly from Skokie residents.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I love Skokie. When I knock on doors, I hear a common theme—residents love this community and want to see it thrive for future generations. My goal is to preserve what makes Skokie special while ensuring it remains strong, welcoming, and vibrant for years to come. I am committed to working hard, listening to residents, and making thoughtful decisions that benefit the entire village.